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The first international break of 2023 is here and it promises to deliver some high quality soccer to tide you over until club action returns in a fortnight. England, France, Netherlands, Portugal, Belgium, and Spain are all in action for the first time since the FIFA 2022 World Cup which was doubly painful for Italy who were not there. It is also the first look we will get at certain sides who find themselves under new leadership ahead of the UEFA 2024 European Championship and 2026 World Cup cycle.
Here is a pick of some of the storylines to keep an eye on…
Defending champions Italy host England
The Azzurri were not in Qatar despite Roberto Mancini’s men winning the 2020 Euro title so for the Italians to go straight up against beaten Euro finalists England is pretty spicy. Italy are light on attacking options while the Three Lions have already been hit by the absences of Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount. This one will be held in Naples so expect a fiery atmosphere as the hosts try to make a winning start to their Euro title defense.
Italy vs. England
Date: Thursday, Mar. 23 Time: 3:45 p.m. ETLocation: Stade de France — Saint-Denis, FranceLive stream: Vix.com
Domenico Tedesco’s Belgium debut
Tasked with picking up the Belgian side after their World Cup exit under Martinez is Domenico Tedesco who arrives after a spell with RB Leipzig. Not yet 40, the Italy-born German tactician will be one of the youngest head coaches on the international circuit and he must now rebuild the Red Devils without the likes of Eden Hazard after his international retirement. Belgium’s new era starts in Sweden up against a 41-year-old Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Sweden vs. Belgium
Date: Friday, Mar. 24