Key events
It’s coming up to 6.30am for me here in Bath, whereabouts are you all reading from? I’d love to know where you’re at and what time zone you’re in! Is it breakfast, lunch or dinner? Let me know via Twitter or email.
We have a section on rising stars from each country at the World Cup in our guides and here is Italy’s: “Giulia Dragoni, 16, made the news in Italy and abroad when named in the squad. Dragoni, a gifted midfielder, is just 16 and played only a few Serie A minutes with Inter. In January, she left for Barcelona, becoming the first foreign woman to reside at La Masia, the legendary Barça academy. However her talent is clear and Dragoni has always been considered destined for success. At a very young age she was named “little Messi” for her dribbling and technical qualities. After six months with Barcelona B, she is expected to train – and debut – with the first team next season.” Read the full piece:
Here is some information on Argentina’s star player from our guide to the country’s team: “In 2021 Estefanía Banini became the first Argentinian woman to be named in Fifa’s Best World XI. Her technique and ability mean the 33-year-old Mendoza-born midfielder remains key to the national side. This will be her second and probably last World Cup. “I understand that this is over and have enjoyed it to the fullest,” she said. “I have mixed feelings: I would love to play for life, especially with the national team.”” Read the full piece:
The team news is in!
Italy starting XI: Durante; Di Guglielmo, Linari, Boattin, Salvai; Giugliano, Bonansea, Beccari, Dragoni, Caruso; Giacinti.
Argentina starting XI: Correa; Stabile, Cometti, Braun, Mayorga; Nunez, Falfan, Bonsegundo, Benitez, Banini; Larroquette.
Preamble
Good morning, afternoon or evening depending on where you are tuning in from! We are in for a treat as we kick off day for of the World Cup with Italy v Argentina.
The two nations are in group G, the other two countries in the group competed against one another yesterday. Sweden narrowly beat South Africa with a last-minute winner meaning they sit top of the table. But if Italy or Argentina can get a win bigger than a one goal difference they will take top spot.
Italy had a good run at the 2019 tournament, making it to the quarter-finals. Argentina, meanwhile, have never been beyond the group stage and so that will be their target for the 2023 edition.
It will be a close encounter with Italy having the slight upper hand in the odds for favourite to win. The game will kick-off in an hour and the teams should have their teams news shortly. Stay tuned for updates.