- Italy U19 are unbeaten in their last 10 games, winning six and drawing four.
- Serbia U19 are on a two-match losing streak following home defeats to Kazakhstan U19 and Portugal U19.
- Italy U19 have won their last two home games.
Can Italy lay down a marker?
Italy U19 enter the new UEFA EURO U19 Group B as clear favourites to progress, so this is a chance for them to lay down a marker ahead of the upcoming fixtures. They have been in great form lately, going undefeated in their last 10 matches across all competitions (W6, D4) and claiming four wins and a draw from their previous five outings.
These included a 3-0 win at home to Slovakia U19 and a 2-1 win away to Ireland U19 in UEFA U19 Championship Qualification, so they'll enter this clash feeling confident of success. Italy U19 have a tendency to dominate the ball and are usually at their most effective when they can play short, patient football.
The Blue Cuccioli have a good structure with width from their full-backs and a front two that will press selectively. In this clash, it will be interesting to see how the two contrasting styles compare.
Serbia to test Italy
Italy U19 are 1.54 favourites for this Group B opener, with Serbia U19 and the draw coming in at 4.75 each. There is a big gap between these sides in the bookies' eyes, but there is a case to be made for this being a close encounter.
Serbia U19 bring mixed form into this game, with five wins, one draw and four defeats from their last 10 in all competitions. They have won two, drawn one and lost one of their previous four away games and while they are a lesser side than Italy U19 on paper, they'll want to make a mark on Monday.
Both teams to score - Yes is the play
Serbia U19 operate in a more direct style, looking to win the ball back fast in transition and engage in aggressive duels. They're strong on the flanks and from set pieces, so the Serbs should be able to test Italy U19 and nick chances on the break.
Serbia U19 average 1.25 goals per away match in all competitions and I think they can do enough to get on the scoresheet in what will be a high-tempo matchup, although I don't see them having enough momentum to keep up with Italy U19 should they play their best.
Italy U19 can do serious damage to the opposition if they play the way they are capable of and it is a shame to see them at odds-on for this game, especially considering the contrast in style of the two teams. Italy U19 have been excellent at home of late, winning three and drawing three of their six games on home ground.
The Blue Cuccioli have scored 17 goals across their six home games in all competitions, averaging 2.83 goals per match. With a strong attacking edge, I feel over 2.5 goals at 1.37 lines up well, while Both Teams to Score - Yes at 1.45 looks like a solid option given the differing styles of the teams and the chance of a few end-to-end moments.
