Italy vs Switzerland - 5 things to watch in the enticing Group C encounter | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers

#3 Berardi must start on the right for Italy

Berardi's form holds Italy in a good stead

Expect changes in the Italy camp too, with Moise Kean likely to start at the center of their attack in Immobile's absence. But it's the right wing where Mancini has a decision to make.

Federico Chiesa, Federico Bernardeschi and Domenico Berardi are all available. Considering their recent line-ups, Chiesa has a better chance of starting here.

But their coach would be wise to give Berardi a chance, for the Sassuolo man has been on a good run of form. He has registered five goals and three assists in 10 league clashes this season.

Only four players in Serie A have a better goal-contribution than him!

Given the Azzurri are playing at home, they'll be aiming to take the lead first. Having the in-form Berardi bombarding down the right flank will surely help their cause a great deal.

---

#2 Goals or no goals?

Italy have scored only 10 goals in six games, while the Swiss have bagged two fewer

It's a no-brainer that both teams will push for victory, but that doesn't guarantee many goals. In fact, Italy (10) and Switzerland (12) have scored only 22 times combined.

In comparison, Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark, England and Poland have all scored more, while Belgium have managed 21.

But defensively, the sides have been some of the most resolute, conceding only once each.

Moreover, with key goalscorers like Immobile, Seferovic and Embolo all missing in action, neither team might be at their attacking best.

---

#1 Winner takes it all

A tasty encounter awaits

Italy and Switzerland's latest encounter has all the hallmarks of a winner-takes-all clash, as the winning side would essentially clinch Group C.

Both sides are level on points. The winner would open up a three-point gap going into the final matchday, which isn't challenging for either of them.

The Azzurri are away to Northern Ireland while Switzerland are at home to Bulgaria. They're both expected to pick up all three points without much hassle.

So it really boils down to their clash on Friday.

Should it end in a draw, Italy will remain on top but will have to maintain their superior goal-difference. They can do that by either equaling or bettering Switzerland's result on the final day.