iSporter Siddharth Panjwani feels his favorite Italians might not be the most fancied team but as always have the capability to raise the game and do the unthinkable, read on for more...
Italian national team are the second-most successful team in the history of world cup having won 4 titles (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006) trailing by one to Brazil. The Azzurris have never been the favourites before the world cup but still are the second best in the world. Famous for their defensive style of football, the Italians have the right blend to stop the aggression of the teams eyeing the esteemed honour.
Italians qualified for the World Cup in a dramatic fashion by equalising in last minute against Ireland to steal a 2-2 draw. After scoring the late equaliser, Gilardino said: "The game was tight until the end. And qualifying for the World Cup, this is even more beautiful. We deserved the draw. When they scored to make it 2-1, we were not attentive. Thank goodness we equalised." The team had to go through harsh criticism having been stretched by Ireland and again recently to their 1-2 defeat against Mexico in a friendly match.
But the Azzurri have a habit of raising the pulse. They were the underdogs in the 2006 World Cup but went on to lift their 4th title beating France on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the end of extra time which involved the famous headbutt from legendary Zidane. Italian Captain Fabio Cannavaro reassured fans ahead of the world cup and said "You will see real ITALY on June 14"
I have been an ardent fan of Paolo Maldini, and have grown watching him play for Italy and Milan. Watching him play was a treat and got me hooked to Italian style of play. Although Maldini retired from his international services post 2002 World Cup, my support for the Azzurri continued. The Italian national team has a great history and has produced legends like Del Piero, Totti, Inzaghi, Pirlo, Maldini, Cannavaro and many more. The current Italian squad too has a right mix of players to suit their style of play and defend the world's premier title in International football
Players to watch out for this World Cup
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Gianluigi Buffon
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Gianluca Zambrotta
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Andrea Pirlo
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Alberto Gilardino
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Giampaolo Pazzini
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