It’s set to be a clash between one of the best defences against one of the most prolific attacks in the tournament so far, with Italy facing Mali in the World Cup quarter-final (18:30 CEST). The Azzurrini have so far secured three wins and a draw, conceding just one goal in the process. Meanwhile, Mali have secured two wins, one draw and one defeat, scoring an impressive nine goals.

Prior to the match, Coach Paolo Nicolato warned that despite only two days rest, the African outfit will be as eager as ever: “They’re a team with limitless resources and they easily could’ve recovered following their game against Argentina. In any case, we’re focused on our own game and we’ll look to capitalise on our technical and dribbling skills.”

As for Andrea Pinamonti’s pre-match thoughts, he said: “We’ll try to trouble them and look for different ways to break through their defence. However, most of all, we’ll be relying on the cohesion of this group which is something that’s growing game by game.”

Mali will have two of their key players back available on Friday, Konate and Camara, who previously missed their key match against Argentina due to suspension.

As for Italy, they now have a total of 11 players walking the tightrope of suspension: Gabbia, Ranieri, Delprato, Scamacca, Pellegrini, Capone, Bellanova, Frattesi, Alberico, Esposito, Tripaldelli). Just one more booking would cost any of them a spot in the semi-final. However, the good news is that Davide Bettella has recovered from an injury and is now available.

Quarter-finals

Friday 7 June

Colombia-Ukraine (15:30 CEST, Lodz Stadium)

Italy- Mali (18:30, Tychy Stadium)

Saturday 8 June

Usa-Ecuador (17:30, Gdynia Stadium)

Korea Republic -Senegal (20:30, Bielsko Biala Stadium)