Italy vs Ecuador tips and predictions: Defending European champions face tricky test in New Jersey

The Italians kicked off their international break with a 2-1 victory over Venezuela last Thursday in Miami.

Luciano Spalletti’s men are now heading to New Jersey as they gear up for a potentially tough test against Ecuador.

Italy qualified for the Euros by finishing second in their group – six points behind England.

The defending European champions have enjoyed some decent results in recent months, only losing one of their last eight matches.

That sole defeat came against England during the qualifiers – a 3-1 loss away at Wembley Stadium back in October.

Building momentum for the summer is firmly on the agenda for Spalletti, though getting a win over Ecuador certainly won’t be easy.

The South American outfit have lost just one of their last 10 international outings. That sole defeat came against Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.

Ecuador head into Sunday’s fixture with a six-match unbeaten run under their belt. During this time, the team have kept four consecutive clean sheets.

With that in mind, we’re backing a low scoring clash over in New Jersey. Italy to win the match, but only by a single goal margin is the way to go in the betting.

 

Key stats

- Ecuador have lost just one of their last 10 internationals

- Italy have kept just two clean sheets from their last nine matches

- Ecuador are on a six-match unbeaten run

- The last competitive meeting between the two sides took place at the 2002 World Cup, with Italy winning 2-0

 

Suggested bets

Under 2.5 goals

Italy to win by a single goal margin

Italy to score first