Italy:European Championship Qualifying.
Rome. The mission begins title defense for the national team of Italy on 14 June with a match against Paraguay. In the land of the world champion's fans and experts are still skeptical, but the team is one of coach Marcello Lippi is definitely the favorites.
BACKGROUND
The reigning world champion needs any introduction: After a record winner Brazil, Italy is the most successful nation in World Cup finals in South Africa to take the "Azzurri" at 17 Time at a world championships. Four years ago, conquered Italy, Germany, there are two disappointing appearances at Euro 2008 and the Confederations Cup a year later. Tifosi Many are skeptical that their team can repeat the triumph of 2006. And that can also be the Italians' advantage. This has proven the past often enough.
THE QUALIFICATION
Italy got into the group by eight before the Irishman and had the skills already ahead in the bag. Beautiful attacking football were the fans of the Lippi-Eleven, however, rarely seen, but agreed the results: Italy remained unbeaten in the qualification.
STRENGTHS:Italy:European Championship Qualifying
Coach Marcello Lippi emphasize how important it is the community, team spirit and cohesion are to him the basic lengths of success. To which the coach is successful again this year. Moreover, the Italians are what is meant by a classic "tournament team": You are there when it matters and to conquer, especially in knockout games are very difficult. The showpiece of the team is the defensive to the stars Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini and captain Fabio Cannavaro.
WEAKNESSES:Italy:European Championship Qualifying
Italy's weak point lies in attack. There simply lacks world-class players. Alberto Gilardino, Antonio Di Natale and Vincenzo Iaquinta are strong attackers, but at the highest level they can not keep up. Esprit also often lack in the midfield, which does not make it easier for the forwards.
THE TRAINER
Marcello Lippi is a real "winner". The veteran coach has already won everything in his career: the Series, the Champions League, World Cup and not least the World Cup title. He is not afraid to make decisions unpopular, so he is now also in Italy in the criticism.
