Italy to play friendlies against Ukraine and United States

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ROME (AP) Italy will face Ukraine and the United States in friendlies later this year.

The Azzurri will meet Ukraine on Oct. 10 - likely at home - and then could play the United States at a neutral ground on Nov. 20.

The Italian federation says match venues will be announced later.

The Unites States Soccer Federation does not announce friendlies until the contract is signed.

The matches coincide with Italy's rest days during the UEFA Nations League, in which the Azzurri will play Portugal and Poland.

Italy, which failed to qualify for the World Cup, plans to hire a new coach next month. Carlo Ancelotti, Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte are the leading candidates.

Italy is unbeaten against Ukraine and has lost only once to the Americans in 12 meetings.