Italy u-21 v Holland u-21: Insigne the key for Azzuri

A far tougher task than predicting the outcome of the first semi final is calling who will prevail in Holland’s clash with Italy.

This is reflected in the 8/5 price both teams share ahead of this tie, with the draw similarly priced at 9/4.

Holland’s comprehensive defeat at the hands of champions elect Spain bears little relevance ahead of this encounter, with the Dutch opting to rest the majority of their main players with qualification ensured.

They’ve bagged at least two goals in seven of their last eight, with the anomaly occurring in their last outing.

This could make backing over 1.5 goals for Cor Pot’s men a handy punt at 6/4, especially against an Italian back four that could prove vulnerable when tested, despite demonstrating typical Azzuri resoluteness in the group stage.

Populated by a host of stars from Serie B minnows, Italy’s defensive unit could only be breached by an injury-time Stefan Strandberg penalty, but still, against such formidable opposition as die Jong Oranje, another clean sheet at 11/5 looks like money wasted.

Despite only scoring once against England and Norway, the Italians did not want for attacking impetus, creating numerous unfinished chances, particularly in the opener.

With the Dutch bagging six goals before deciding to present Spain with top spot in Group B, there’s every chance this could be a lively affair. At 1/1, a punt on over 2.5 goals could prove profitable, while an even more galling venture – over 3.5 goals total – pays out at 5/2.

Lorenzo Insigne’s return from injury could prove crucial for the Italians. The Napoli man bagged the winner against the Three Lions and has notched seven times in 12 Italian under-21 games. He’s a 7/4 shot to hassle the score masters at any point of this match.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date