The Italians actually won the entire tournament back in 2006, and they managed to get all the way to the final of Euro 2012 two years ago. As recent records go in major championships, Italy's is not to be sniffed at. However, this is the World Cup, and anything can - and will - happen. First of all, Italy are entering this tournament with a recent record that is absolutely disastrous. Whilst many England fans will have no doubt been aimlessly panicking at the failure to beat Ecuador in a warm-up game for the tournament, Italy were scraping to a 1-1 draw at home to Luxembourg. They aren't playing any games in hot, humid heat to prepare themselves for that opening game in Manaus against England, choosing instead to play the Republic of Ireland at Craven Cottage. That is preparation that could cost them dear, given how England are already adjusting to the humid, sticky conditions they will face in the Amazon rainforest. In fact, Italy haven't won an international game in 10 months, stretching back into the latter part of 2013. That includes draws against Ireland, Nigeria and even Armenia - far from ideal form heading into a major tournament. And with the completely unpredictable Mario Balotelli likely to lead their line in Brazil, the chances on Italy even getting out of the group have to be regarded as being in the balance.
