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Italy target semi-final berth

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Italy target semi-final berth
Italy target semi-final berth
Italy target semi-final berth

The race for last four qualification in the Confederations Cup heats up this evening as all four Group A sides are in action, including Italy’s match-up against Japan.

As many as eight Juventus names could appear in Cesare Prandelli’s starting line-up later on today in Recife: Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Emanuele Giaccherini, Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and Sebastian Giovinco.

Following a 2-1 opening victory against Mexico, the Azzurri may have the chance tonight at 7pm (midnight CET) to secure semi-final qualification with a game to spare depending on the outcome of the other Group A fixture which sees Brazil lock horns with Mexico at 4pm (9pm CET).

However, Buffon & co. will first have to get the better of former Bianconeri coach Alberto Zaccheroni, who has enjoyed great success during his three-year stint on the bench with Japan but also currently faces the tough task of rallying his troops after their 3-0 loss in Saturday’s tournament opener against Brazil.

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