While the international break presents plenty of tasty World Cup qualifying fixtures, it is the friendlies that could steal the spotlight with Italy hosting Spain and Germany facing Italy.
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Europe’s top sides will continue their preparations for this summer’s European Championship in France, with almost all of the 24 teams in action.
Germany vs. England
Despite the latest injury to midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger, defending World Cup champion Germany boasts a surplus of talent against an up-and-coming England side. Saturday’s meeting will be a big test for Tottenham youngsters Dele Alli and Eric Dier, who look to establish themselves as English regulars, just as Harry Kane has done.
For Joachim Löw’s Germany side, the defense will be an area to monitor, with Mats Hummels and Jonas Hector the only players selected to have made double-digit appearances for Die Mannschaft.
Italy vs. Spain
Following his record-breaking performance with Juventus, Gianluigi Buffon and Italy looks to build momentum heading into this summer’s competition. The Italians seek options in the attack, giving Stephan El Shaarawy and Southampton’s Graziano Pelle the opportunity to stake their claim on a spot in the Azzurri squad.
Spain has made a habit of impressing on the international stage, and Vicente del Bosque will have the chance to look at some of La Furia Roja’s young talent against Italy. In net, Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea seeks the squad’s starting role, hoping to surpass the aging Iker Casillas.
FULL SCHEDULE FOR THIS WEEK’S INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLIES:
WEDNESDAY
Croatia vs. Israel
Slovenia vs. Macedonia
Romania vs. Lithuania
Gibraltar vs. Lichtenstein
Poland vs. Serbia
THURSDAY
Malta vs. Moldova
Estonia vs. Norway
Greece vs. Montenegro
Turkey vs. Sweden
Denmark vs. Iceland
Ukraine vs. Cyprus
Czech Republic vs Scotland
Italy vs. Spain
Wales vs. Northern Ireland
FRIDAY
Armenia vs. Belarus
Luxembourg vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Slovakia vs. Latvia
Netherlands vs. France
Republic of Ireland vs. Switzerland
Portugal vs. Bulgaria
SATURDAY
Russia vs. Lithuania
Austria vs. Albania
Poland vs. Finland
Azerbaijan vs. Kazakhstan
Hungary vs. Croatia
Germany vs. England
SUNDAY
Romania vs. Spain
