Hungary vs Italy Predictions

• Hungary have seen under 2.5 goals scored in five of their last seven games.
• Six of Italy’s last 10 matches, meanwhile, have contained fewer than three goals.
• Roberto Mancini’s men have only scored nine goals in their last nine games.

Nations League battle goes to final game

When Hungary were drawn alongside Italy, Germany and England in Group A3 of the UEFA Nations League, few would have expected Marco Rossi’s team to approach their final game simply needing to avoid defeat to reach the finals. However, the Magyars’ solid defensive displays have put them in a commanding position after five games, and Italy’s attacking issues may mean Monday’s decisive match is a tight affair.

Indeed, Hungary posted a surprise 1-0 win at Germany on Friday, with Adam Szalai’s fine backheel putting Die Mannschaft out of contention. As well as posting two shutout wins against England, Hungary have conceded just three goals in their Nations League campaign, with Rossi’s 3-5-2 shape being built on a solid rearguard. Five of Hungary’s last seven games have contained under 2.5 goals, and the hosts have lost just two of their last 10 games including friendlies.

Italy are the only side to beat Hungary in the current edition of the Nations League, and remained in contention for top spot by seeing off a dire England side on Friday. However, Roberto Mancini’s team have struggled going forwards of late, scoring just nine times in their last nine games. Six of the Azzurri’s last 10 games have contained under 2.5 goals, and with striker Ciro Immobile still nursing an injury, Italy may struggle to break down their stubborn hosts.

Tight affair likely in Budapest

With Italy looking less-than-fluid even when beating England on Friday, punters may be best advised to ignore the short price around the visitors on the result market and back under 2.5 goals to be scored in Hungary.

However, Italy have only lost one of their last 16 away games, and should have enough quality to snatch top spot. It will be tight, though, and a 1-0 away win could represent a decent correct score prediction.