Italy vs. Argentina: Viewing Info and Preview for Marquee Friendly Match

Italy and Argentina will face off in a high-profile friendly on a day full of international football action. Both powerhouse sides are on track to reach the 2014 World Cup and will use the match as a tune-up before returning to qualifying next month.

The clash was dealt a blow when Barcelona announced superstar forward Lionel Messi wouldn't feature for Argentina, as he is still recovering from a muscle injury. Italy's Mario Balotelli will also miss the match due to a knee injury.

Italy reunites for the first time since its third-place finish in the Confederations Cup. The Azzurri pushed Spain to penalty kicks in the semifinals before their title hopes came to an end. They hope to rediscover that form before the qualifiers return.

Let's take a look at all the key viewing information for the friendly, followed by a preview and prediction.

Where: Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy

When: Wednesday, Aug. 14 at 2:45 p.m. ET (7:45 p.m. BST)

Watch: Univision Deportes and RAI Internazionale

Preview

With Balotelli out of the mix, the main attacking duties will fall on the shoulders of his AC Milan teammate Stephan El Shaarawy. The 20-year-old sensation only has one goal in 10 international appearances, but that total can be expected to rise rapidly in the coming years.

El Shaarawy will be supported by a talented veteran midfield, led by Andrea Pirlo and Daniele De Rossi, who have nearly 200 national team appearances between them. Having that type of stability in the middle of the pitch is why the Azzurri remain dangerous.

They also have veteran leadership at the back in goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. A lot of faces have changed around the squad since he came aboard in 1997, but he's been a stalwart between the posts and continues to play at a high level.

As they continue to trend toward Brazil next summer, finding a way to incorporate younger players while still relying on the veteran base is the key for Italy. Cesare Prandelli must strike the right balance, and this friendly should be a good measuring stick.

The Azzurri definitely don't lack talent, but getting everybody to gel together is easier said than done when certain pieces have been playing together for so long.

Messi's absence will obviously be a major setback for Argentina. Although he hasn't scored at the same rate for the Albiceleste as he has for Barca, he's still one of the most dynamic attacking weapons in the world. That said, it's only a friendly, so playing it safe is the right move.

In the meantime, Gonzalo Higuain is more than capable of picking up the slack. The Napoli striker has netted 20 goals in 33 international appearances. If not for Messi, he would receive far more attention for his play with Argentina.

Angel di Maria will headline the midfield group and should benefit from getting more touches without Messi as the focal point of the attack. Finding a connection between the Real Madrid playmaker and Higuain will be crucial for the Albiceleste.

In order to score a road victory, however, Argentina must focus on the defensive third. The back line has played well in recent qualifying matches, but Pablo Zabaleta and Co. must step up even more against elite competition like Italy.

Ultimately, since Messi will be sitting out and Italy will be playing at home, the Azzurri get the slight edge in what should be an entertaining friendly.

Prediction: Italy 2, Argentina 1