- Fixture: Slovakia U21 vs Italy U21
- Date: Saturday, 14 June 2025
- Venue: Štadión Antona Malatinského (City Arena Trnava), Trnava, Slovakia
Match Preview
Slovakia U21 face a must-win scenario as they host Italy U21 in the second round of Group A at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. After a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Spain in their opening match, the hosts are on the brink—another loss would almost certainly end their hopes of progressing beyond the group stage. Italy, meanwhile, got off the mark with a narrow but vital 1-0 win over Romania, courtesy of Tommaso Baldanzi’s clinical finish and a crucial penalty save by Sebastiano Desplanches. This sets the stage for an intense encounter in Trnava, with both teams desperate for points but facing very different pressures.
Slovakia’s recent form has been patchy. Although they qualified automatically as hosts, their pre-tournament friendlies raised concerns: they are winless in their last five matches, including heavy defeats to Portugal (3-1), Germany (1-0), and France (4-0). Their most recent outing before the tournament was a 2-2 draw with Slovenia, where they squandered a two-goal lead late on. In the group opener, they pushed Spain all the way but ultimately conceded in stoppage time, a result that showed both their attacking promise and defensive frailties.
Italy’s U21s have not quite lived up to their illustrious history in recent tournaments, but the opening win over Romania was a step in the right direction. The Azzurrini had to grind out the result, with Baldanzi’s goal and Desplanches’ penalty heroics making the difference. Prior to the Euros, Italy were on a five-match winless run, drawing with Denmark, Ukraine, France, and Ireland, and losing to the Netherlands. However, their impressive defensive solidity and knack for scoring in every recent game suggest they are tough to beat, especially away from home.
Both squads are at full strength, with no reported injuries or suspensions for this clash. Slovakia will look to Timotej Jambor, who has netted twice in his last four appearances, to lead the line, while Italy’s attacking trio of Baldanzi, Koleosho, and Gnonto are expected to cause problems for the Slovak backline. The midfield battle could be decisive, with Italy’s Fabbian, Prati, and Ndour providing both creativity and steel.
Key Players
- Slovakia U21:
- Timotej Jambor: In-form striker, two goals in last four games.
- Adam Obert: Scored in the warm-up against Slovenia, key in defense.
- Tomáš Suslov: Creative force in midfield.
- Italy U21:
- Tommaso Baldanzi: Match-winner against Romania, creative hub.
- Sebastiano Desplanches: Penalty-saving goalkeeper, vital for Italy’s defensive confidence.
- Wilfried Gnonto: Dynamic forward, expected to stretch the Slovak defense.
- Luca Koleosho: Quick and direct, a threat from wide areas.
Prediction
Italy U21 enter as favorites, thanks to their greater squad depth, defensive organization, and recent uptick in results. Slovakia will be buoyed by home support and showed they can trouble top teams, as seen against Spain. However, Italy’s ability to grind out results and their superior attacking options should see them edge a close contest. Expect Slovakia to score, but Italy’s quality to prevail.
Predicted Score: Slovakia U21 1-2 Italy U21
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Selection | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match Result | Italy U21 | 5/6 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 10/11 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | Yes | 11/10 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score | 1-2 Italy U21 | 7/1 | Bet Now |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Tommaso Baldanzi | 2/1 | Bet Now |
| First Goalscorer | Timotej Jambor | 11/2 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and may vary. Please check the linked site for latest prices.
This match promises high stakes, attacking football, and plenty of drama as Slovakia fight for survival and Italy look to secure early qualification from Group A.
