Italy vs Republic of Ireland Euro 2016: What time does it start, where can I watch it live?
A look ahead to tonight's clash in Group E
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.What can happen?
Ireland will go through with a win, most likely as a best third placed team. However, they can still finish second if Sweden beat Belgium and Ireland’s winning margin is at least two goals better than the Swedes’. Anything other than victory will spell the end of the tournament for Martin O’Neill’s men.
Italy are already through as group winners, regardless of the result here.
It’s a big game for…
Shane Long: The Southampton forward had a day to forget in the Republic’s disappointing 3-0 reverse against Belgium. Before being subbed in the 79th minute, Long managed just 17 touches of the ball, with none in Belgium’s area in the first 45 minutes.
Long will hope for more support from his team-mates in this make or break fixture, following a productive season at Southampton.
Best stat…
Don’t bet on lots of goals from the Italians, they have never scored more than two in a match in 35 games at the European Championship.
Player to watch…
Leonardo Bonucci: If idle transfer gossip is to be believed, Antonio Conte hopes to make the Juventus defender one of his first acquisitions at Stamford Bridge. Something of a late developer, the 29-year-old spent the early part of his career on loan at different clubs, including time in Serie B with Pisa and Treviso.
Only since his move to Juventus in 2012 has he firmly established himself as a consistent top flight performer.
Premier League interest…
Italy (3): Matteo Darmian, Angelo Ogbonna, Graziano Pellè
Republic of Ireland (10): Séamus Coleman, John O'Shea, Glenn Whelan, James McCarthy, Shane Long, James McClean, Jonathan Walters, Shay Given, Stephen Ward, David Meyler,
Past meetings…
Italy 0 Republic of Ireland 0, Friendly 2014
Italy 2 (Cassano, Balotelli) Republic of Ireland 0, Euro 2012
Vital information…
KICK-OFF TIME: 8pm
TV: Live on ITV
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments