Italy plays Germany on Friday in an international friendly. The match starts at 2:45 p.m. ET (8:45 p.m. local). Live streaming information available below.
Friday is more than just a friendly for Germany. It's been close to 18 years since Germany notched a win against Italy in this fixture, according to Goal.com. In their last six matches, Italy has won four games and forced a draw in two. Italy eliminated Germany in the 2006 World Cup, and they handed the German team a 2-1 loss at Euro 2012.
"Italy are tactically world class and the national team still plays at a high level," Germany boss Joachim Low said, via Goal.com. "The Italians are characterised by their cleverness and efficiency.
"To play against this team was our desire because we can only evolve if we face strong opponents."
Despite their poor outings against Italy, Germany - at least on paper - is the better team. FIFA ranked Germany as No. 2 in the world; Italy is tied for No. 8.
For Italy, with both sides already qualified for the 2014 World Cup, the friendly is a means to tinker with the lineup against a team they're likely to encounter in Brazil. It's also an opportunity for Italy manager Cesare Prandelli to further evaluate which players make the trip to Rio next year.
"There are places available," said Prandelli. "Many players are motivated; they want to prove that they can be a part of such a group. I have in my mind 35 players so nothing is definite.
"I have a precise idea of what type of football I want the team to play. Seeing as I am not able to work with the team a lot on the pitch, I've had to use official games to understand this. During the games, there will be various interpretations but our reference module will be that of four midfielders."
Watch the free live stream HERE.
