Preview: Germany vs Italy

Joachim Low’s side have won three of the four matches that they played in Euro 2016. The only exception being a goalless draw against Poland in the group stages. Their last 3-0 victory over Slovakia shows that the Germans are moving into top gear at just the right time.

However, Antonio Conte’s team will be difficult to overcome. The Azzurri have just disposed of reigning European champions 2-0 on Monday. They also did the same to Germany in the 2012 Euro semi-finals.

Despite pre-tournament expectations being low, goals from Chiellini and Pelle along with a passionate and tactically superior display from the entire team helped Italy book their place in the quarter-finals.

Now, the Italians have another chance to answer their critics further by securing a victory over Germany in what should be a much-anticipated class between the two great footballing nations.

When asked about the encounter, the German coach stated that he believes that the two best sides at this tournament so far will now meet. Low also acknowledged that Italy has players who are well schooled in defence, but also great attackers that can produce fast counter-attacks.

On the other hand, the Italian manager admitted that Italy will find it hard against Germany since they are on a higher level than everybody else. The outgoing Italian manager also stated that they need to produce something extraordinary to beat this German side.

Conte's task will be made more difficult since he will be without Thiago Motta who is suspended after picking a booking in the 2-0 win over Spain. De Rossi and Candreva will probably also miss the game in Bordeaux after suffering an injury. On the other hand, Low will have his full squad available for selection.

The Italians might have a psychological boost knowing that they have a series of good results against Germany. In fact, they managed to beat them fifteen times, while the Germans won eight matches against Italy. The remaining ten matches ended up in a draw.

The referee of this match will be Viktor Kassai from Hungary.