Germany vs Italy for Euro 2016 - UEFA Quarterfinals: Italian Midfielder Daniele De Rossi Set to Miss Saturday's Match
For the quarterfinals match between Italy and Germany this weekend, Italian star Daniele De Rossi may not be able to join his team because of a thigh injury he sustained last Monday during their victory against Spain.
De Rossi's Condition
The midfielder was limping after he got knocked hard on the thigh during their last fight. Team doctor Enrico Castellaci explained that it could take time for him to recover.
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"It caused a bruise, but not only that -- it also saw a few fibres of the muscle displaced," added Castellaci, noting that the team is doing all that is needed to attend to his injury.
Who Will Take his Place?
However, with the possible absence of De Rossi for the upcoming game, coach Antonio Conte may not have someone to take his role. Antonio Candreva is the player that comes into mind to replace the midfielder but he has also been sidelined for an adductor muscular sprain.
Not having De Rossi on the team will certainly hurt Italy, especially because he has been an important part of the Group E victories as well as the win last Monday versus Spain.
Even with hopes to defeat Germany with a strong lineup, the team is not ready to sacrifice the health of one of their best players. Castellaci described De Rossi's situation as "very serious," adding that they cannot give a definite prognosis for now.
Germany Trying to Break No-Win Record vs Italy
On the other hand, Germany has not won a single game in the eight times they faced Italy in major tournaments but they are determined to change history this Saturday.
"We still have a score to settle with the Italians," said goalkeeping coach Andreas Koepke.
Preparing for a Strong Italian Team
For his part, Germany coach Joachim Low said his team is preparing for a strong offense and defense from the Italians. He claimed that it will be a truly interesting match for the weekend.
How Can I Watch the Game?
Saturday night's kickoff is at 8 p.m. at the Stade Matmut-Atlantique in Bordeaux. Tickets for the game are sold for $50 to $800. It will also be broadcasted live via ITV or BBC with livesteaming available through this this link.
Who do you think will win for this matchup? Will it be Italy or Germany?
