However, Gian Piero Ventura’s side have a chance to cancel out that surprise defeat on Monday night in the second leg. A 2-0 win would be enough to see the home side qualify for next year’s World Cup and that is exactly what Forebet predicts will happen in this vital game.
One major positive for Italy heading into this clash is that they have never lost a World Cup qualifier on home soil, dating back to their first ever qualifier back in 1934.
Surprisingly Italy were held to a 1-1 draw against Macedonia in their last home World Cup qualifier. However, that draw followed three straight home wins for Ventura’s side. The Azzurri had also kept clean sheets in all three wins.
Italy also have a good recent record against Sweden on home soil, as they won two of the last three meetings.
Sweden illustrated their quality and determination in the first leg of this tie and will certainly not make life easy for the home side in Milan.
Janne Andersson’s team have a decent recent record in qualifying, as they have now won three of their last four games, while also keeping clean sheets in three of their last four games.
That defensive solidity will be needed in this clash, as Italy will be likely press from kick-off to level the aggregate score.
One major negative for the Blagult is their recent away record in World Cup qualifying. The visitors have lost four of their last six away games in qualifying. Andersson’s has also conceded two or more goals in three of their last four away games in World Cup qualifying.
Italy were always favourites to qualify for next year’s World Cup. However, the first leg defeat makes it more difficult, although it would be a major shock if the home side were not at Russia 2018.