World Cup: Lippi ready for Germany Thursday 29 December, 2005
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Marcello Lippi assures that the Azzurri are ready for anything at the 2006 World Cup in Germany and fear no opponent.
“I cannot wait to go through this incredible adventure,” said the Italy Coach. “I expect my team to make a good impression in the tournament and, personally, I know we’ll experience some wonderful emotions.”
The peninsula outfit has had a great 2005, qualifying top of Group Five and ending the year unbeaten with seven wins and six draws.
Their recent form – and qualifying a round early – has earned comparisons with the Italy squad that won the 1982 World Cup under the tutelage of Enzo Bearzot.
“There are similarities, such as Brazil being the favourites going into the competition,” notes Lippi. “Being the best doesn’t necessarily guarantee you victory. There’s a lot of desire to make up for the negative experiences of the past few years.”
Italy were knocked out by South Korea in the 2002 World Cup and failed to progress past the group phase in Euro 2004. They have been drawn in Group E with Ghana, the Czech Republic and the USA.
“We shouldn’t be too worried about the draw, as we are Italy and must consider ourselves stronger than most opposition.”
The Coach is spoilt for choice when it comes to the strikers, as players such as Alessandro Del Piero and Antonio Cassano are by no means assured a spot in the squad.
“Cassano could come along if he proves he is in form and plays regular first team football,” explained Lippi on Sky Sport Italia. “The same goes for Del Piero, as it does for any player. I think the worst thing a Coach could do would be to say someone definitely will or won’t be in the squad six or seven months before the tournament.”
