Greece and Italy meet in Heraklion for an international friendly as both nations attempt to rebuild after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Greece continue to struggle for consistency, Italy’s youthful squad will look to extend their positive momentum under a fresh new era.

Greece vs Italy Match Preview

Match News and Current Form

Greece come into this fixture after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Sweden, with a stoppage-time equaliser salvaging some pride following another disappointing result. The Greeks have now won only one of their last eight matches (D3, L4), highlighting their ongoing struggles at both ends of the pitch.

Defensive issues have become increasingly worrying, with Greece conceding two or more goals on five occasions during that run. Their attacking output has also lacked consistency, failing to score in three of their last four games before the Sweden clash.

Italy, meanwhile, are beginning a complete rebuild after failing to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup. The Azzurri edged Luxembourg 1-0 in midweek with an extremely youthful side that became Italy’s youngest starting XI since 1912.

Despite the disappointment surrounding Italian football, their recent friendly form has been impressive. Italy are unbeaten in five consecutive friendlies (W4, D1) and have now kept four straight clean sheets.

The young Italian squad will be eager to impress again here as they continue building towards the future.

Head-to-Head Record

Italy have historically dominated this fixture.

• Italy lost only one of the previous 18 meetings against Greece.
• The Azzurri recorded 12 wins in those encounters.
• Italy won the most recent H2H 2-0 back in October 2019.

Hot Stats and Trends

• Greece have won only one of their last eight matches.
• Greece failed to score in three of their last four games.
• Italy are unbeaten in their last five friendlies.
• Italy kept four consecutive clean sheets.
• Italy won eight of their last ten friendlies against European opposition.

Key Players to Watch

Greece – Georgios Masouras

Masouras scored Greece’s late equaliser against Sweden and now has four goal contributions across his last seven appearances for club and country.

Italy – Francesco Pio Esposito

The young striker has scored four goals in eight international appearances and continues to impress during Italy’s rebuild.

Greece vs Italy Betting Tips

Best Bet: Italy to Win

Italy’s youthful squad has shown strong energy and defensive organisation in recent matches, while Greece continue to struggle for consistency.

Both Teams to Score – YES

Despite Italy’s recent clean sheets, Greece usually find opportunities at home and Italy have occasionally looked vulnerable away from home.

Over 2.5 Goals

Greece’s defensive issues and Italy’s attacking intent could combine to produce an entertaining encounter.

Correct Score Prediction

Greece 1-2 Italy

Italy’s superior quality and momentum should help them edge a competitive contest in Heraklion.

Final Prediction

Italy to Win

Both Teams To Score – YES

Over 2.5 Goals

Correct Score: Greece 1-2 Italy

Italy’s young generation continues to grow in confidence, and they should have enough quality to secure another positive result against an inconsistent Greece side.