Watch live as Cesare Prandelli’s men look to meet the Czech challenge and secure their place at the top of Group B in a crucial qualification game at the Juventus Stadium on September 10, 2013

Preview: Tough task ahead for Azzurri as they aim to secure their place at the top

Cesare Prandelli is aware of the importance of not labouring towards a World Cup qualification place ahead of a vital Group B encounter at home against Czech Republic who will also be eager to steal the show in a bid to overtake Bulgaria in the second spot in the group standings.
As things stand, Italy lead group B of the WCQ with 17 points from seven games, followed by Bulgaria in second place with 10 points who have the Czechs breathing down their necks, trailing them by a solitary point.

 

After huffing and puffing their way to a 1-0 win over Bulgaria at the Renzo Barbera, Prandelli’s side know that they are getting closer towards securing a place in Brazil. Moreover, Italy have been unbeaten throughout the qualifiers which just goes on to show how far the team has come after the Euro heartbreak. A win at the Juventus Stadium will see Italy automatically qualify for the World Cup from a group that has been the most open one for teams vying for a playoff place.

Currently, Czech Republic, Armenia and Denmark, all have the chance to qualify for the playoff place which is precisely the reason why the Czechs would be eager to make history in Turin in order to enter the final two games of the qualifiers with great confidence.

A 2-1 defeat at home at the hands of Armenia a few days back is the reason why Michael Bilek’s side was unable to pip Bulgaria to the second spot. And, the shocking result at the Parken Stadion could come back to haunt the Czechs who have a very strong squad that has blown hot and cold throughout the campaign.

Inconsistency is what has cost the Czechs dearly so far and Bilek would be hoping that his side’s unpredictable nature does them a favour against an Italian side that boasts a very strong squad and a defensive line which has conceded only four goals (and one at home) during the qualifiers.

Mario Balotelli will be Italy’s danger man and will surely cause havoc in the Czech half if given too much time on the ball. The AC Milan striker is Prandelli’s wildcard. Bar his moments of madness, the youngster is a gifted footballer who has the knack of turning things around at his leisure. No one knows what kind of Balotelli will turn up at the games but if it is the striker eager to score goals, Peter Cech and co could be in for a torrid night.

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky is the creative spark of his team and will be looking to use all his experience in a bid to weather the storm for his side in Turin. The 32 year old scored Czech Republic’s only goal in the match against Armenia on Friday as his side lost 2-1 and he will be looking to inspire his side to an unlikely win against the European giants.

Where to watch the match – live stream, start time, TV channels, Live scores

Watch Italy vs Czech Republic live on Tuesday, September 10, 2013:

In USA at 14:45 ET on Univision Deportes, RAI Internazionale

Fans in other parts of the world can watch the match live on their local channels. Those in Canada can watch the match live on GolTV Canada, whereas fans in Australia can watch the action live on ESPN Pacific Rim.

For complete details of match listings and live scores, visit the Italy vs Czech Republic match page.