Sunday, 20 June 2010
World Cup: Italy 1-1 New Zealand. Useless.
Italy continued to stumble at this World Cup as they were held by a gritty New Zealand team in South Africa today. But there can be no excuses as Italy managed to make New Zealand look like a defensive juggernaught and players who are used to Champions League football and World Cup finals had no definitive response today. Despite dominating in chances and possession Italy could not break through the New Zealand resistance who gave a tremendous account of themselves. The same cannot be said of Italy in this tournament so far, although a win against Slovakia will guarantee a place in the second round and at this time the most likely opponents would be Holland. Lippi has a lot of work to do to turn this poor start around. While Italy are notoriously slow starters, having only scored 1 goal in the group stages of the 1982 tournament and gone onto won, the options to turn this around all seem to be miles away on holiday or in Italy. Balotelli, Cassano, Rossi, Santon, Miccoli and Totti could be quite useful right now. Maybe under Cesare Prandelli they will be.
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At least Italy showed passion and determination, as well as resilience. Compared to France and England, Italy still have much to be hopeful for and against Holland they would certainly raise their game.
ReplyDeleteHi JR. I agree, there was plenty of effort especially from Zambrotta, Montolivo and De Rossi. The problem for me has always been the forward line. Di Natale really should be starting alongside one of the hitmen, and hopefully he will against Slovakia. Your right, there is still some hope and Italy are not in disarray, they just need to get going and quick. Here's hoping that they do.
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