(Football news) 2021 was an incredible year for the Italian national team as they won the Euros in emphatic style under Roberto Mancini. The end of the year wasn't so great after they lost the UEFA Nations League semi final against Spain and two back to back draws in the World Cup qualifiers meant that they finished 2nd in their group behind Switzerland. They now have to beat North Macedonia and will have Portugal or Turkey waiting for them if they do.

North Macedonia finished 2nd in their group behind Germany and now have a chance to make it to their first ever World Cup finals. It will be a very difficult task as Italy will be at full strength and are likely to deploy the same team that won the Euros 6 months ago. The big question mark is over the fitness of veteran duo Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci who have struggled with injuries recently. Italy do have the home advantage which is massive in these circumstances.

Levante's midfielder Enis Bardhi is very crucial for North Macedonia. He will be the anchor in the centre of the park. Italy are naturally a defensive side but may have to lead the charge in this game. The Italians cannot afford to miss out on the World Cup as they failed in the playoffs last time around and hence couldn't make it to Russia. The task won't be easy but given that they are European champions and Nations League semi finalists, Italy are the favourites ahead of Portugal, Turkey and North Macedonia.

Italy Possible Starting XI:

Donnarumma; Florenzi, Bastoni, Mancini, Emerson; Jorginho, Barella, Verratti; Berardi, Immobile, Insigne.

North Macedonia Possible Starting XI:

Dimitrievski; S. Ristovski, Velkovski, Musliu, Alioski; Nikolov, Ademi, Bardhi; Churlinov, M. Ristovski, Trajkovski

Also read: Injury hit Portugal host Turkey to keep World Cup dream alive