Italy vs Dominican Republic Prediction: the Italians Can't Stop the Powerful Forward

Prediction for the FIBA World Championship match between Italy vs Dominican Republic, which will take place on August 27th. Check the team conditions and choose several betting options!

The Italians defeated Angola 81:67 in the first round. They could have scored more if not for their disgusting shooting from long range - five out of 31. Gianmarco Pozzecco's charges were able to partially compensate with free throws - 26 out of 30.

The Italians didn't play well on the backboards either - they couldn't win the battle for rebounds (41:41). But they had the advantage in assists - 22:13.

The Dominicans have given up a lot of points in recent friendlies, including 81 against the Philippines in the first round. The defense of this team leaves a lot to be desired, so Italy is unlikely to play low.

As for what the guys can do on offense, they scored 94 points against Canada a week ago. The Dominican team has some decent and well-known scorers, especially among the bigmen. It won't be easy for the Italians to handle them especially in rebounding.

By the way, a few years ago, in the only meeting between these teams, the Italians had no advantage in rebounding at all - 38:38. The Dominicans didn't have Towns in that game, but now the Minnesota center is present.

This will not be an easy game for Italy - they are smaller and not as strong as Towns and Delgado. In addition, Melli and Ricci are older, and Severini, if he had the skill to stop Towns, wouldn't be playing in Tortona.