If you're a fan of a lopsided volleyball match, this Belgium vs Italy game would make your eyes twinkle brighter than a diamond-studded disco ball. I mean, Belgium's team is talented, don't get me wrong. They managed a neat little 2-0 victory against Greece, which calls for a modest round of polite applause. Bravo. But then remember their encounter with France where they were squashed like a bug under a steamroller, a whopping 5-0 defeat. Memories like that can make a grown footballer cry.
Now, let's talk about Italy. They've got the stuff and the stats to prove it. Overcame Germany, accomplished a peaceful stalemate with Spain, obliterated Malta, went toe-to-toe with England, and had a quiet date with Ireland. They've seen their share of turmoils and triumphs and seem to be walking off their rounds as if they’ve been to a Sunday brunch. They've got a team that can play a hymn on a harmonica while running through a hailstorm and still come out looking sharp.
When I put my money on a horse, I prefer one that's been through the mud and come out shining, and in this case, that horse is Italy. I can see them taking this game with a margin leaner than a greyhound on a diet. And as we're in the business of capping margins too, don't count Belgium out completely; they won't be handing Italy the golden ticket on a silver platter.
Albert’s Prediction: Italy by 1