-
This is a reminder of 3 IMPORTANT RULES:
1- External self-promotion websites or apps are NOT allowed here, like Discord/Twitter/Patreon/etc.
2- Do NOT post in other languages. English-only.
3- Crack/Warez/Piracy talk is NOT allowed.
Breaking any of the above rules will result in your messages being deleted and you will be banned upon repetition.
Please, stop by this thread SoccerGaming Forum Rules And Guidelines and make sure you read and understand our policies.
Thank you!
The Azzurri Thread
- Thread starter Walkeranz
- Start date
Luis Ah-Hoy
Senior Squad
Congrats... you guys have a very strong NT... seems equal, or even better than that team form Euro 2000! 
Italy will definitely top the group, and they'll have no problems getting past their oponents in the next round... i mean, the possibilities are: Croatia, Australia or less likely Japan... good teams, but none of them stand a chance to stop this Italian team...
Italy will definitely top the group, and they'll have no problems getting past their oponents in the next round... i mean, the possibilities are: Croatia, Australia or less likely Japan... good teams, but none of them stand a chance to stop this Italian team...
Azzurri Ratings
------------------------------------------------
Gigi Buffon: 6.5
The Juventus ‘keeper was rarely called into significant action thanks to Ghana’s inaccurate and sometimes erratic shooting. Yet he was ready when called upon, as Michael Essien knows.
Cristian Zaccardo: 6
Seen as the weak leak in the side before the game, Zaccardo did worry at times when he was dragged out of position. Roma’s Christian Panucci, left at home in Italy, remains a better option.
Fabio Cannavaro: 7.5
Another commanding display at the back for the Juventus stopper. Cannavaro proved to be a difficult wall to get over last night. Was also dangerous in the opposition area from set-pieces.
Alessandro Nesta: 7.5
The Milan man took his time to settle but grew in stature as the game developed. His back-heeled flick from a Ghana counter-attack was immense, a sign of the world class stopper that he is.
Fabio Grosso: 5.5
The biggest disappointment of the night when it came to the Azzurri. Grosso was unrecognisable from the full-back who Inter have just agreed to sign. Unsure, nervous and timid.
Andrea Pirlo: 7.5
Tipped by some before the game to start on the bench, Pirlo was Italy’s best player for the first hour. He controlled play, dictated the rhythm and, of course, netted the opener with a beauty.
Daniele De Rossi: 6
The booking which he recklessly collected early on compromised his performance, even if he did put himself about as usual. Was perhaps fortunate to not concede a penalty.
Simone Perrotta: 7
Picked ahead of Camoranesi in midfield, he certainly didn’t let his side down. A non-stop runner and tackler. Perrotta should have netted in the second half, but went for power instead of placement.
Francesco Totti: 6.5
Struggled to find his position in the early exchanges but slowly integrated himself with some delightful touches and passes, as well as a stunning free-kick. He’s on his way back.
Alberto Gilardino: 6
A quiet night for the Milan man who struggled to make his presence felt. And when he did get a chance he firstly hit the outside of the post with a weak effort and then fired straight at Kingston.
Luca Toni: 6.5
A real handful for the Ghana defence even if he went missing for large periods of the second half. Almost crowned his World Cup debut with a stunner until the crossbar got in the way.
Substitutes
Mauro Camoranesi: 6
Replaced Totti in the second half to give Italy more width but contributed little to the
cause. His lack of urgency, both in attack and defence, was infuriating.
Vincenzo Iaquinta: 7
Added some renewed pace to the Azzurri attack and was rewarded for his efforts by making the game safe with his first international goal. Will he now start against America?
Alessandro Del Piero: No Vote
A late substitute who wasn’t given the time nor the ball to leave his mark on the game. Will probably have to sit the next one out too if Lippi plays the Totti card again.
Marcello Lippi: 8
Made some fine decisions both before and during the match. He kept faith with the under-fire Andrea Pirlo, while Simone Perrotta and Vincenzo Iaquinta didn’t let him down.
----------------------------------------------
Zambrotta Back for Italy
--------------------------------------------------------------
There is more good news for Italy after their 2-0 win over Ghana last night as Gianluca Zambrotta has been declared injury-free.
The Juventus stopper missed the Hanover tie because of a thigh strain, but medics have handed him back to boss Marcello Lippi on Tuesday.
“Zambrotta joined the rest of the squad this morning and is getting back to full fitness,” stated doctor Enrico Castellacci.
“I think we can now all consider him to be back at the disposal of the Italian national Coach.”
Zambrotta featured in a very light practice game this morning and he could return to action on Saturday against America.
The tactician will now use the next few days to assess his options, given that the marauding Zambrotta can play both as a full-back on the right and left.
Meanwhile, Castellacci has ruled out any significant problems for Francesco Totti after the knock he picked up against the Africans.
“He suffered a slight twist to his knee, but there are no problems and we are tranquil,” he continued. “He’ll be fine for the immediate future.”
The Azzurri now have just one injury problem to resolve in the form of dynamic midfielder Gennaro Gattuso.
“He’s working hard to get back,” added the medic. “He’ll undergo more tests on Wednesday. We are going forward with caution, yet with optimism.”
Gattuso, who picked up a thigh strain in a friendly with Switzerland, may miss the entire group phase.
------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------
Gigi Buffon: 6.5
The Juventus ‘keeper was rarely called into significant action thanks to Ghana’s inaccurate and sometimes erratic shooting. Yet he was ready when called upon, as Michael Essien knows.
Cristian Zaccardo: 6
Seen as the weak leak in the side before the game, Zaccardo did worry at times when he was dragged out of position. Roma’s Christian Panucci, left at home in Italy, remains a better option.
Fabio Cannavaro: 7.5
Another commanding display at the back for the Juventus stopper. Cannavaro proved to be a difficult wall to get over last night. Was also dangerous in the opposition area from set-pieces.
Alessandro Nesta: 7.5
The Milan man took his time to settle but grew in stature as the game developed. His back-heeled flick from a Ghana counter-attack was immense, a sign of the world class stopper that he is.
Fabio Grosso: 5.5
The biggest disappointment of the night when it came to the Azzurri. Grosso was unrecognisable from the full-back who Inter have just agreed to sign. Unsure, nervous and timid.
Andrea Pirlo: 7.5
Tipped by some before the game to start on the bench, Pirlo was Italy’s best player for the first hour. He controlled play, dictated the rhythm and, of course, netted the opener with a beauty.
Daniele De Rossi: 6
The booking which he recklessly collected early on compromised his performance, even if he did put himself about as usual. Was perhaps fortunate to not concede a penalty.
Simone Perrotta: 7
Picked ahead of Camoranesi in midfield, he certainly didn’t let his side down. A non-stop runner and tackler. Perrotta should have netted in the second half, but went for power instead of placement.
Francesco Totti: 6.5
Struggled to find his position in the early exchanges but slowly integrated himself with some delightful touches and passes, as well as a stunning free-kick. He’s on his way back.
Alberto Gilardino: 6
A quiet night for the Milan man who struggled to make his presence felt. And when he did get a chance he firstly hit the outside of the post with a weak effort and then fired straight at Kingston.
Luca Toni: 6.5
A real handful for the Ghana defence even if he went missing for large periods of the second half. Almost crowned his World Cup debut with a stunner until the crossbar got in the way.
Substitutes
Mauro Camoranesi: 6
Replaced Totti in the second half to give Italy more width but contributed little to the
cause. His lack of urgency, both in attack and defence, was infuriating.
Vincenzo Iaquinta: 7
Added some renewed pace to the Azzurri attack and was rewarded for his efforts by making the game safe with his first international goal. Will he now start against America?
Alessandro Del Piero: No Vote
A late substitute who wasn’t given the time nor the ball to leave his mark on the game. Will probably have to sit the next one out too if Lippi plays the Totti card again.
Marcello Lippi: 8
Made some fine decisions both before and during the match. He kept faith with the under-fire Andrea Pirlo, while Simone Perrotta and Vincenzo Iaquinta didn’t let him down.
----------------------------------------------
Zambrotta Back for Italy
--------------------------------------------------------------
There is more good news for Italy after their 2-0 win over Ghana last night as Gianluca Zambrotta has been declared injury-free.
The Juventus stopper missed the Hanover tie because of a thigh strain, but medics have handed him back to boss Marcello Lippi on Tuesday.
“Zambrotta joined the rest of the squad this morning and is getting back to full fitness,” stated doctor Enrico Castellacci.
“I think we can now all consider him to be back at the disposal of the Italian national Coach.”
Zambrotta featured in a very light practice game this morning and he could return to action on Saturday against America.
The tactician will now use the next few days to assess his options, given that the marauding Zambrotta can play both as a full-back on the right and left.
Meanwhile, Castellacci has ruled out any significant problems for Francesco Totti after the knock he picked up against the Africans.
“He suffered a slight twist to his knee, but there are no problems and we are tranquil,” he continued. “He’ll be fine for the immediate future.”
The Azzurri now have just one injury problem to resolve in the form of dynamic midfielder Gennaro Gattuso.
“He’s working hard to get back,” added the medic. “He’ll undergo more tests on Wednesday. We are going forward with caution, yet with optimism.”
Gattuso, who picked up a thigh strain in a friendly with Switzerland, may miss the entire group phase.
------------------------------------------------
ShiftyPowers
Make America Great Again
Hmm.... I was actually impressed with Cammo's skill and energy off the bench.
mark77
Transfer Guru
look at the votes and comments by the adnkronos site. 
That shows you how 99% of the media in Italy are anti-Juve. It is scandalous
that the media post BULLSH*T like this.
Roma, 12 giu. (Ign) - L'esordio col Ghana tra promossi e bocciati
Arbitro Simon 2 (Come i rigori non dati al Ghana)
Dispiace parlar male di un collega, ma il brasiliano sembra scelto da Moggi per come favorisce smaccatamente gli italiani. Vero che ammonisce De Rossi, Camoranesi, Toni e Iaquinta, ma per due nonrigori non visti è un prezzo che anche la triade avrebbe sottoscritto senza chiedere sconto. Salvo poi incazzarsi per l'eccessiva permissività sui falli-killer
Buffon 6
Una partita senza troppi patemi. E' bastata una parata per vincere la sua 'scommessa'
Zaccardo 6
Miracolato, arriva in Germania col biglietto di Panucci, antipatico a Lippi. Riesce a non sfigurare più di tanto
Cannavaro 6
Il capitano mostra sicurezza, senza sbagliare nulla. Come avrà fatto senza flebo al braccio?
Nesta 6
Non è al massimo e si vede, però di classe (e non solo) con il tacco blocca un contropiede degli africani
Grosso 5
Prima ringrazia Zambrotta. Ma poi forse pensa che era meglio la panchina. Troppo emozionato, si blocca senza trovare la posizione. Dalla sua parte il Ghana fa paura
Perrotta 9
Vederlo in campo fa pensare che Lippi sia un allenatore. E già è tanto, ma lui stupisce ed è il migliore degli azzurri. Non si ferma un momento, avendo un'altra marcia e quasi sfiora il gol nel finale
Pirlo 8
In linea con Totti trova il gol con un tiro dai 26 metri e sblocca un match difficile. Poi rallenta e cincischia, per fortuna sciabatta verso Iaquinta che raddoppia. Gol e assist
De Rossi 6
Debutto difficile ma alla fine porta a casa la pagnotta: un'ammonizione e due falli da rigore, ringraziando l'oculista e la moglie dell'arbitro
Totti 7+
Inizia lento ma gioca sempre di prima. E riesce lo stesso a fare la differenza, velocizzando una squadra che sembra spesso avere il freno a mano tirato. Due i pezzi migliori: la faccia stranita perché ha segnato pure Iaquinta e il gavettone a Peruzzi
Camoranesi 4 (10' s.t.)
Resta nel tabellino per due aspetti: non si è tagliato i vcapelli e riesce lo stess o a farsi ammonire. Lippi aveva azzeccato a lasciarlo in panchina, ma poi non resiste al tentativo di farsi del male con l'argentino e lo schiera
Gilardino 5
Lotta, combatte rientra, copre, aiuta. Potrebbe essere il miglior sostituto di Zambrotta, solo che a quest orittmo si dimentica del ruolo di attaccante, sparando in bocca al portiere del Ghana
(19 s.t.) Iaquinta 3 poi 8
Poi si dice che i miracoli nel calcio non esistono! Gioca quattro palloni. Il primo fuorigioco, ma aveva ragione lui, il secondo fuorigioco ma aveva ragiobne Koffour. il terzo strategico in area lo 'padella'. Per il quarto accenderà un cero a S.Pirlo
Toni 7
Il centravanti tuttigol rompe una traversa ma non centra la porta. Tanto impegno, ma a vuoto
(37' s.t.) Del Piero sv
Chi l'ha visto?
Lippi 7 poi 2 poi 8
Il Marcello nazionale azzecca la formazione (schierandone una totalmente sperimentale) poi passati in vantaggio si fa prendere dal libellulum che è in lui, ovvero la paura che l'attanaglia e gli viene il braccino. Risultato tutti dietro a soffrire. Dura leggere la partita senza qualcuno che ti suggerisce al cellulare, e allora tra Inzaghi e Iaquinta sceglie l'azzardo e probabilmente si brucia la sua dose di fortuna per ii mese di giugno
_______________________________
Ref Simon 2; The Brazilian looked like he was chosen by Moggi to favour the Italians.
Buffon 6; Only needed one save to win his bet.
Cannavaro 6; Didn't miss a thing. How did he do that without a syringe in his arm?
Camoranesi 4
Del Piero no vote, whoe saw him?(This one I can agree with)
Lippi 7 then 2 and then 8
The 2 for was when Italy started defending. It's tough reading a game when you don't have someone giving you some suggestions on the phone.
.
That shows you how 99% of the media in Italy are anti-Juve. It is scandalous
that the media post BULLSH*T like this.
Roma, 12 giu. (Ign) - L'esordio col Ghana tra promossi e bocciati
Arbitro Simon 2 (Come i rigori non dati al Ghana)
Dispiace parlar male di un collega, ma il brasiliano sembra scelto da Moggi per come favorisce smaccatamente gli italiani. Vero che ammonisce De Rossi, Camoranesi, Toni e Iaquinta, ma per due nonrigori non visti è un prezzo che anche la triade avrebbe sottoscritto senza chiedere sconto. Salvo poi incazzarsi per l'eccessiva permissività sui falli-killer
Buffon 6
Una partita senza troppi patemi. E' bastata una parata per vincere la sua 'scommessa'
Zaccardo 6
Miracolato, arriva in Germania col biglietto di Panucci, antipatico a Lippi. Riesce a non sfigurare più di tanto
Cannavaro 6
Il capitano mostra sicurezza, senza sbagliare nulla. Come avrà fatto senza flebo al braccio?
Nesta 6
Non è al massimo e si vede, però di classe (e non solo) con il tacco blocca un contropiede degli africani
Grosso 5
Prima ringrazia Zambrotta. Ma poi forse pensa che era meglio la panchina. Troppo emozionato, si blocca senza trovare la posizione. Dalla sua parte il Ghana fa paura
Perrotta 9
Vederlo in campo fa pensare che Lippi sia un allenatore. E già è tanto, ma lui stupisce ed è il migliore degli azzurri. Non si ferma un momento, avendo un'altra marcia e quasi sfiora il gol nel finale
Pirlo 8
In linea con Totti trova il gol con un tiro dai 26 metri e sblocca un match difficile. Poi rallenta e cincischia, per fortuna sciabatta verso Iaquinta che raddoppia. Gol e assist
De Rossi 6
Debutto difficile ma alla fine porta a casa la pagnotta: un'ammonizione e due falli da rigore, ringraziando l'oculista e la moglie dell'arbitro
Totti 7+
Inizia lento ma gioca sempre di prima. E riesce lo stesso a fare la differenza, velocizzando una squadra che sembra spesso avere il freno a mano tirato. Due i pezzi migliori: la faccia stranita perché ha segnato pure Iaquinta e il gavettone a Peruzzi
Camoranesi 4 (10' s.t.)
Resta nel tabellino per due aspetti: non si è tagliato i vcapelli e riesce lo stess o a farsi ammonire. Lippi aveva azzeccato a lasciarlo in panchina, ma poi non resiste al tentativo di farsi del male con l'argentino e lo schiera
Gilardino 5
Lotta, combatte rientra, copre, aiuta. Potrebbe essere il miglior sostituto di Zambrotta, solo che a quest orittmo si dimentica del ruolo di attaccante, sparando in bocca al portiere del Ghana
(19 s.t.) Iaquinta 3 poi 8
Poi si dice che i miracoli nel calcio non esistono! Gioca quattro palloni. Il primo fuorigioco, ma aveva ragione lui, il secondo fuorigioco ma aveva ragiobne Koffour. il terzo strategico in area lo 'padella'. Per il quarto accenderà un cero a S.Pirlo
Toni 7
Il centravanti tuttigol rompe una traversa ma non centra la porta. Tanto impegno, ma a vuoto
(37' s.t.) Del Piero sv
Chi l'ha visto?
Lippi 7 poi 2 poi 8
Il Marcello nazionale azzecca la formazione (schierandone una totalmente sperimentale) poi passati in vantaggio si fa prendere dal libellulum che è in lui, ovvero la paura che l'attanaglia e gli viene il braccino. Risultato tutti dietro a soffrire. Dura leggere la partita senza qualcuno che ti suggerisce al cellulare, e allora tra Inzaghi e Iaquinta sceglie l'azzardo e probabilmente si brucia la sua dose di fortuna per ii mese di giugno
_______________________________
Ref Simon 2; The Brazilian looked like he was chosen by Moggi to favour the Italians.
Buffon 6; Only needed one save to win his bet.
Cannavaro 6; Didn't miss a thing. How did he do that without a syringe in his arm?
Camoranesi 4
Del Piero no vote, whoe saw him?(This one I can agree with)
Lippi 7 then 2 and then 8
The 2 for was when Italy started defending. It's tough reading a game when you don't have someone giving you some suggestions on the phone.
.
italianstyle87
Starting XI
hahaha i reckon it's funny...it's just that stupid that it's funny
perrotta with a 9! he was good, but i'd still give MoM to pirlo
perrotta with a 9! he was good, but i'd still give MoM to pirlo
ForzaNerrazurri
Senior Squad
Gattuso makes rapid recovery
Gennaro Gattuso returned to training today, while former Italy boss Dino Zoff believes the Azzurri are one of the best sides in the World Cup so far.
The Milan midfielder had been ruled out for two weeks with a muscular strain last Wednesday, but is already back working with his teammates this morning. Although he is highly unlikely to feature against the USA on Saturday, at this rate he will be ready for the final Group E game with the Czech Republic.
Italy's other injury doubt, Gianluca Zambrotta, is well on the road to recovery and should start this weekend against the Americans.
Marcello Lippi’s men got off to a strong start in this tournament, beating Ghana 2-0, and ex-Azzurri Coach Zoff admits he was impressed by the debut. “It was an excellent start against Ghana and there were no particular longueurs during the tie,” explained the man who took them to within a Golden Goal of the Euro 2000 title.
“In fact, I think we probably created more in the second half, which was logical as Ghana had to push forward and leave more space at the back, which we could’ve taken more advantage of. All things considered, it was a perfect opener and I’d say the main contenders for the trophy are Italy, Brazil and France. Francesco Totti played well and it’s an encouraging sign, as he can only improve as time goes on.”
Italy legend Gigi Riva was also optimistic following the relatively comfortable victory in Hanover, proving that the Calciopoli scandal has not affected the squad. “We had waited with interest for the moment in which we’d test ourselves on the field and could focus only on the football. It went well and Vincenzo Iaquinta showed his fine form in training, which is why he convinced Lippi and earned his place in the side.”
Andrea Pirlo and Udinese striker Iaquinta, who came on as a substitute, got the strikes that see Italy trail the Czech Republic in Group E on goal difference, so the USA tie will be crucial to maintain this momentum.
“We won the opener and now have to see how we’ll fare against the stronger sides,” continued Riva. “USA aren’t a poor side, so it would be a mistake to go into Saturday’s game with this belief. It’s interesting to note that all of the giants have struggled to some degree.” The Americans were defeated 3-0 by the Czech Republic in their debut, left reeling by a Tomas Rosicky brace and Jan Koller header.
=====================================
I can't wait until we have our full squad fully fit. Get back quick Gennaro!
Gennaro Gattuso returned to training today, while former Italy boss Dino Zoff believes the Azzurri are one of the best sides in the World Cup so far.
The Milan midfielder had been ruled out for two weeks with a muscular strain last Wednesday, but is already back working with his teammates this morning. Although he is highly unlikely to feature against the USA on Saturday, at this rate he will be ready for the final Group E game with the Czech Republic.
Italy's other injury doubt, Gianluca Zambrotta, is well on the road to recovery and should start this weekend against the Americans.
Marcello Lippi’s men got off to a strong start in this tournament, beating Ghana 2-0, and ex-Azzurri Coach Zoff admits he was impressed by the debut. “It was an excellent start against Ghana and there were no particular longueurs during the tie,” explained the man who took them to within a Golden Goal of the Euro 2000 title.
“In fact, I think we probably created more in the second half, which was logical as Ghana had to push forward and leave more space at the back, which we could’ve taken more advantage of. All things considered, it was a perfect opener and I’d say the main contenders for the trophy are Italy, Brazil and France. Francesco Totti played well and it’s an encouraging sign, as he can only improve as time goes on.”
Italy legend Gigi Riva was also optimistic following the relatively comfortable victory in Hanover, proving that the Calciopoli scandal has not affected the squad. “We had waited with interest for the moment in which we’d test ourselves on the field and could focus only on the football. It went well and Vincenzo Iaquinta showed his fine form in training, which is why he convinced Lippi and earned his place in the side.”
Andrea Pirlo and Udinese striker Iaquinta, who came on as a substitute, got the strikes that see Italy trail the Czech Republic in Group E on goal difference, so the USA tie will be crucial to maintain this momentum.
“We won the opener and now have to see how we’ll fare against the stronger sides,” continued Riva. “USA aren’t a poor side, so it would be a mistake to go into Saturday’s game with this belief. It’s interesting to note that all of the giants have struggled to some degree.” The Americans were defeated 3-0 by the Czech Republic in their debut, left reeling by a Tomas Rosicky brace and Jan Koller header.
=====================================
I can't wait until we have our full squad fully fit. Get back quick Gennaro!
M
Mikey
Guest
Alright, well apparently consistency isnt a reflection on our play at this tourney.
What the hell was that performance yesterday? A man up on the AMERICANS, and we couldnt score,,, even though we pretty much had possesion for 35 minutes.
Lippi is worse than Trappatoni ever was. His favouritism for undeserving players is borderline embarassing. Bringing on Del Piero over Camoranesi cost us the game. Instead of great players on either flank (Zambrotta on left , Camo on right)... Lippi decides bringing on a slow old man is the way to go
. I dont think Del Piero had enough backheel giveaways, maybe next game he can just give the ball directly to the other team, just to save time. You guys say im wrong in my assesment with Del Piero, but what has he done in past 2 games,, Other than a long range effort yesterday on Keller?
Iaquinta was a mess as usual. This was the PERFECT game for Inzaghi to come in and score one of the 30 crosses that came in unmet. What is wrong with Lippi !?!?!?!?!
,,,, and good old Zaccardo. The media, and fans have been continuously critisizing Lippi for picking him over Panucci,,,, and it FINALLY all came apart. A ridiculous own goal, when he wasnt under pressure at all. Just outstanding stuff. and than he got nutmegged later until Lippi finally just took him out.
The positives... Pirlo has been our best player so far, another great game. Everything went through him. Zambrotta was at his best, and through him and Pirlo our entire offence went through. Gattuso also didnt look injured at all, and he'll be key in the Czech game. Gila scored a nice goal, even if he didnt really touch the ball the entire second half.
So in the end, we still lead the group and a win against the Czechs guarentees we get 1st place.
With all that said, If Lippi plays our best 11 against the Czechs I think we can do it. We need a shakeup in roster, and this is what Id do.
(what Id start)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Gila :::::::: Toni ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Totti :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::: Gattuso :::::::::::::::: Camoranesi :::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Pirlo ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:: Zambrotta :::::: Cannavaro :::: Nesta ::::::::: Oddo :::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Buffon :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NO Iaquinta or Del Piero as subs. Perrotta for Totti if we're defending a lead, and Inzaghi or Grosso on if we need a goal.
What the hell was that performance yesterday? A man up on the AMERICANS, and we couldnt score,,, even though we pretty much had possesion for 35 minutes.
Lippi is worse than Trappatoni ever was. His favouritism for undeserving players is borderline embarassing. Bringing on Del Piero over Camoranesi cost us the game. Instead of great players on either flank (Zambrotta on left , Camo on right)... Lippi decides bringing on a slow old man is the way to go
. I dont think Del Piero had enough backheel giveaways, maybe next game he can just give the ball directly to the other team, just to save time. You guys say im wrong in my assesment with Del Piero, but what has he done in past 2 games,, Other than a long range effort yesterday on Keller? Iaquinta was a mess as usual. This was the PERFECT game for Inzaghi to come in and score one of the 30 crosses that came in unmet. What is wrong with Lippi !?!?!?!?!
,,,, and good old Zaccardo. The media, and fans have been continuously critisizing Lippi for picking him over Panucci,,,, and it FINALLY all came apart. A ridiculous own goal, when he wasnt under pressure at all. Just outstanding stuff. and than he got nutmegged later until Lippi finally just took him out.
The positives... Pirlo has been our best player so far, another great game. Everything went through him. Zambrotta was at his best, and through him and Pirlo our entire offence went through. Gattuso also didnt look injured at all, and he'll be key in the Czech game. Gila scored a nice goal, even if he didnt really touch the ball the entire second half.
So in the end, we still lead the group and a win against the Czechs guarentees we get 1st place.
With all that said, If Lippi plays our best 11 against the Czechs I think we can do it. We need a shakeup in roster, and this is what Id do.
(what Id start)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Gila :::::::: Toni ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Totti :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::: Gattuso :::::::::::::::: Camoranesi :::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Pirlo ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:: Zambrotta :::::: Cannavaro :::: Nesta ::::::::: Oddo :::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Buffon :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NO Iaquinta or Del Piero as subs. Perrotta for Totti if we're defending a lead, and Inzaghi or Grosso on if we need a goal.
ShiftyPowers
Make America Great Again
I think the De Rossi suspension is fantastic for you. If both are healthy, De Rossi on his best day can't compare to Gattuso on his worst.
FORZA AZZURRI
FORZA AZZURRI
italianstyle87
Starting XI
i thought DP was good against the US
once he came on, there seemed to be more of a link between the midfield and attack, and he didn't seem to give the ball away too much
i have no idea what you mean that he was crap, but camoranesi may or may not have been better
i think the real problem is totti, screw him, he's had two world cup games to be played into form, and that's two too many, italy was playing with 10 men all game
that's why cassano should've been picked, it'll never happen, but i'd play 4-4-2
-----------buffon----------
oddo-cannavaro-nesta-grosso
----------pirlo-gattuso------
camoranesi---------zambrotta
--------toni-gilardino--------
once he came on, there seemed to be more of a link between the midfield and attack, and he didn't seem to give the ball away too much
i have no idea what you mean that he was crap, but camoranesi may or may not have been better
i think the real problem is totti, screw him, he's had two world cup games to be played into form, and that's two too many, italy was playing with 10 men all game
that's why cassano should've been picked, it'll never happen, but i'd play 4-4-2
-----------buffon----------
oddo-cannavaro-nesta-grosso
----------pirlo-gattuso------
camoranesi---------zambrotta
--------toni-gilardino--------
M
Mikey
Guest
I actually really like that lineup
I dont think anyone can say Totti has been a flop, hes coming back from a serious injury and basically hadnt played a competitive game since February. That being said, Id still start him over DP ,,,, who ill admit im a bit too harsh on. Cassano shouldve been on roster.
I dont think anyone can say Totti has been a flop, hes coming back from a serious injury and basically hadnt played a competitive game since February. That being said, Id still start him over DP ,,,, who ill admit im a bit too harsh on. Cassano shouldve been on roster.
my computer crashed last thursday and its been killing me not to be able to talk about what has gone on.
the US game. what more can you say. de rossi's red was obviously justified, mastroeni's was justified, and so was pope's. terrible disappointed in de rossi, what was he thinking. i'm really hating how people are going off on italy because we couldnt beat the states. that game was one of the most odd matches i think ive ever watched, with many underlying circumstances that affected the outcome. i can't stand people who talk like they know what the hell is going on when in reality actually know Carlos ****. nothing angers more. but this happens every major tournament, so ive become accustomed to it.
gattuso came in and played unreal. pirlo had another fantastic game. zambrotta is zambrotta, end of story, gila's header was magic, but then became invisible. lippi pulled the trigger on the changes too early. AND GOD SAKES, WHY IAQUINTA? biggest waste of space on the field. perfect time for inzaghi and nothing. im actually gonna stop myself here, cause im too mentally exhausted to talk about this anymore.
on to the czechs. with baros, koller and ujfalusi out i know we will be fine. our defence is the best in the tournament, and am 100% confident on how we will do. im ecstatic that gattuso recovered early, and now all those DM's dont look so bad. time for the gattuso-pirlo-camo midfield combo. totti should continue to start, partnered by toni and gila.
totti vs ghana, he played quite well and no one should have any problems with him. against the states, it was quite obvious how we were starting the match. calm the storm of the US attack, which we did, get a goal on the counter, which we did, and then take control of the game on the counter and put away another, which we didnt cause of the red card which forced totti off, tactically. so i dont know how you could complain about his play.
i also really like that lineup. i think it should and probably will be used in the 2nd half. but i doubt grosso or oddo will see the pitch. lippi would probably put barone in a wide position. so in a perfect world that would be the best line-up but in a lippi world players like barone, iaquinta and zaccardo continue to play.
the US game. what more can you say. de rossi's red was obviously justified, mastroeni's was justified, and so was pope's. terrible disappointed in de rossi, what was he thinking. i'm really hating how people are going off on italy because we couldnt beat the states. that game was one of the most odd matches i think ive ever watched, with many underlying circumstances that affected the outcome. i can't stand people who talk like they know what the hell is going on when in reality actually know Carlos ****. nothing angers more. but this happens every major tournament, so ive become accustomed to it.
gattuso came in and played unreal. pirlo had another fantastic game. zambrotta is zambrotta, end of story, gila's header was magic, but then became invisible. lippi pulled the trigger on the changes too early. AND GOD SAKES, WHY IAQUINTA? biggest waste of space on the field. perfect time for inzaghi and nothing. im actually gonna stop myself here, cause im too mentally exhausted to talk about this anymore.
on to the czechs. with baros, koller and ujfalusi out i know we will be fine. our defence is the best in the tournament, and am 100% confident on how we will do. im ecstatic that gattuso recovered early, and now all those DM's dont look so bad. time for the gattuso-pirlo-camo midfield combo. totti should continue to start, partnered by toni and gila.
totti vs ghana, he played quite well and no one should have any problems with him. against the states, it was quite obvious how we were starting the match. calm the storm of the US attack, which we did, get a goal on the counter, which we did, and then take control of the game on the counter and put away another, which we didnt cause of the red card which forced totti off, tactically. so i dont know how you could complain about his play.
i also really like that lineup. i think it should and probably will be used in the 2nd half. but i doubt grosso or oddo will see the pitch. lippi would probably put barone in a wide position. so in a perfect world that would be the best line-up but in a lippi world players like barone, iaquinta and zaccardo continue to play.
ShiftyPowers
Make America Great Again
I love Inzaghi if he beats Czech Republic
FORZA AZZURRI!!!
FORZA AZZURRI!!!
ShiftyPowers
Make America Great Again
4 and a half hours from game time. Please win guys 
M
Mikey
Guest
welll, the first round is done. We were unbeaten, scored 5 goals, won the group and most importantly avoided brazil.... so why am i disappointed?
Our defence has been outstanding. Cannavaro is the defender of the tourney, and we basically didnt concede a goal.... Zaccardo scoring on his own net under no pressure shouldnt count against what Canna, Buffon and co.
Our path to the semi final is .... pretty favourable... on paper.
the US was supposed to be our 'easy' game in the group, and they gave us the most problems. In the week before the World Cup, we played both the Swiss and Ukraine... and had two very unimpressive draws. In 2006, we beat Holland 3-1 and Germany 4-1 and impressed a lot in both. Italy plays to the level of their opponents, look at what happened at Euro 2004 in supposedly the easiest group. I'll admit, if we can beat the Aussies, the Swiss-Ukraine draw is kinda favourable..... but Australia has been really impressive so far, and completely outplayed a Croatia side who had advanced would have said was a much harder draw for Italy..... Plus we always have to start every game with a man down (because Totti is playing )
My ratings for players:
Buffon - 7.5 - hasnt been beaten yet, despite some strong performances from Ghana and Pavel Nedved.
Cannavaro - 9 - Outstanding. Hasnt put a foot wrong, and has actually been offering something on set pieces.
Nesta - 8.5 - Flawless against Ghana and USA. Sorely missed.
Grosso - 5 - too slow for this level, sorry to say. Can deliver a great cross, and has been alright going forward but because of his lack of his pace leaves huge holes on the counter.
Zaccardo - 5 - Played his best ever game against Ghana, which wasnt amazing but just good for his standards. Than was a complete disaster against the US. Id like to hear Lippi justify his selection now.
Zambrotta - 7 - If there was ever a case where we could duplicate a player, wed have quality from both flanks. Not as effective on the right as on the left, I expect Lippi will recognize this in time for Australia game.
Pirlo - 7.5 - Basically our entire offence against Ghana and US. The surprise of the tourney for me, hes been at his best when most ppl (possibly including me) wrote him off after a subpar season with Milan. He's no indespensable. doesnt get an 8, because he gave away some balls against Czechs. His play has been the reason Totti hasnt been relied on too much.
De Rossi - 5 - Everybody had high hopes for him. Too many fouls against Ghana, and not enough output. And than he disgraced himself against US.
Gattuso - 6.5 - How did we ever question his place in lineup? Stepped up in De Rossi's absence and outplayed him in every way. Even offering on the offensive, and had a basically clean goal disallowed against the US. His celebration with Lippi was also class.
Perrotta - 6 - One of the best on the park against Ghana, tireless running and impressive in attack. Had a mixed game against the States, but played on after injury. Surprisingly started against the Czechs, and was decent. A big question mark from now on. Still, whether he starts or comes off the bench, a very important player.
Camoranesi - 5.5 - Pretty disappointing against Czechs when given chance. Still, he adds a dimension to our lineup nobody else can... mostly in part because Lippi brought no alternatives
Totti - 5.5 - What was with his showboating against the Czechs? Ruined offensive attacks by trying to chip Cech, and failing misarably every time. Game against Aussies has to be make or break. Hasnt recovered from injury.
Gilardino - 6 - Was a solid partner in attack against Ghana, and scored a beauty against the States. Was all alone in third game, and really couldnt do much with the lack of service. Should retain starting place.
Toni - 6 - Defied all logic and kept off score sheet in first round. Looked very dangerous against Ghana, and unlucky he hit the crossbar. Was unlucky to be benched against Czechs. If he starts against Aussies, and doesnt perform, thats probably his last chance... assuming we can still progress.
Iaquinta - 5.5 - I'll never know what Lippi sees in this guy over a lot more deserving Italian strikers who were left at home. Maybe he scored against Ghana, but that goal was gifted to him by Kuffour. Thankfully Lippi has listened to everybody and picked Pippo ahead of him.
Inzaghi - 6 - Maybe he missed some chances, but he always puts himself out there in ways Gila and Toni havent. If he doesnt start against Aussies, has to be the first man off the bench
Materazzi - 6.5 - His great form of late with Azzurri continued. A completely different player for country than for club. A lot more composed at the back. I believe he can replace Nesta well for the time being.... Lets not forget hes still Materazzi, the same guy who chipped Julio Cruz from half.. a feat most world class strikers couldnt dream of
Barone - 5 - summed up my feelings with his selection with his cross late in the game against Czechs, which was about 100 feet behind the net.
Lippi - 6 - Lucky to get a 6. Picked a great lineup against Ghana, which neutralized their impressive midfield... and than made ridiculous subs against the States you wouldnt expect from a man with such experience... has continually kept faith with an out of form Totti. His continuous decision to select Zaccardo against everyones opinion finally backfired in his face. Im not writing him off. He's a world class coach, and I hope he proves it.
Its time to give Oddo a chance.
My lineup against Australia:
::::::::::: Toni ::::::: Gila ::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Totti ::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::: Perrotta ::::::::::::: Gattuso ::::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Pirlo ::::::::::::::::::::::::::
: Zam :::: Matrix ::: Canna ::::: Oddo :::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Boof ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Totti and Toni given 60 min to impress, otherwise Camoranesi and Pippo to be brought on.
Our defence has been outstanding. Cannavaro is the defender of the tourney, and we basically didnt concede a goal.... Zaccardo scoring on his own net under no pressure shouldnt count against what Canna, Buffon and co.
Our path to the semi final is .... pretty favourable... on paper.
the US was supposed to be our 'easy' game in the group, and they gave us the most problems. In the week before the World Cup, we played both the Swiss and Ukraine... and had two very unimpressive draws. In 2006, we beat Holland 3-1 and Germany 4-1 and impressed a lot in both. Italy plays to the level of their opponents, look at what happened at Euro 2004 in supposedly the easiest group. I'll admit, if we can beat the Aussies, the Swiss-Ukraine draw is kinda favourable..... but Australia has been really impressive so far, and completely outplayed a Croatia side who had advanced would have said was a much harder draw for Italy..... Plus we always have to start every game with a man down (because Totti is playing )
My ratings for players:
Buffon - 7.5 - hasnt been beaten yet, despite some strong performances from Ghana and Pavel Nedved.
Cannavaro - 9 - Outstanding. Hasnt put a foot wrong, and has actually been offering something on set pieces.
Nesta - 8.5 - Flawless against Ghana and USA. Sorely missed.
Grosso - 5 - too slow for this level, sorry to say. Can deliver a great cross, and has been alright going forward but because of his lack of his pace leaves huge holes on the counter.
Zaccardo - 5 - Played his best ever game against Ghana, which wasnt amazing but just good for his standards. Than was a complete disaster against the US. Id like to hear Lippi justify his selection now.
Zambrotta - 7 - If there was ever a case where we could duplicate a player, wed have quality from both flanks. Not as effective on the right as on the left, I expect Lippi will recognize this in time for Australia game.
Pirlo - 7.5 - Basically our entire offence against Ghana and US. The surprise of the tourney for me, hes been at his best when most ppl (possibly including me) wrote him off after a subpar season with Milan. He's no indespensable. doesnt get an 8, because he gave away some balls against Czechs. His play has been the reason Totti hasnt been relied on too much.
De Rossi - 5 - Everybody had high hopes for him. Too many fouls against Ghana, and not enough output. And than he disgraced himself against US.
Gattuso - 6.5 - How did we ever question his place in lineup? Stepped up in De Rossi's absence and outplayed him in every way. Even offering on the offensive, and had a basically clean goal disallowed against the US. His celebration with Lippi was also class.
Perrotta - 6 - One of the best on the park against Ghana, tireless running and impressive in attack. Had a mixed game against the States, but played on after injury. Surprisingly started against the Czechs, and was decent. A big question mark from now on. Still, whether he starts or comes off the bench, a very important player.
Camoranesi - 5.5 - Pretty disappointing against Czechs when given chance. Still, he adds a dimension to our lineup nobody else can... mostly in part because Lippi brought no alternatives
Totti - 5.5 - What was with his showboating against the Czechs? Ruined offensive attacks by trying to chip Cech, and failing misarably every time. Game against Aussies has to be make or break. Hasnt recovered from injury.
Gilardino - 6 - Was a solid partner in attack against Ghana, and scored a beauty against the States. Was all alone in third game, and really couldnt do much with the lack of service. Should retain starting place.
Toni - 6 - Defied all logic and kept off score sheet in first round. Looked very dangerous against Ghana, and unlucky he hit the crossbar. Was unlucky to be benched against Czechs. If he starts against Aussies, and doesnt perform, thats probably his last chance... assuming we can still progress.
Iaquinta - 5.5 - I'll never know what Lippi sees in this guy over a lot more deserving Italian strikers who were left at home. Maybe he scored against Ghana, but that goal was gifted to him by Kuffour. Thankfully Lippi has listened to everybody and picked Pippo ahead of him.
Inzaghi - 6 - Maybe he missed some chances, but he always puts himself out there in ways Gila and Toni havent. If he doesnt start against Aussies, has to be the first man off the bench
Materazzi - 6.5 - His great form of late with Azzurri continued. A completely different player for country than for club. A lot more composed at the back. I believe he can replace Nesta well for the time being.... Lets not forget hes still Materazzi, the same guy who chipped Julio Cruz from half.. a feat most world class strikers couldnt dream of
Barone - 5 - summed up my feelings with his selection with his cross late in the game against Czechs, which was about 100 feet behind the net.
Lippi - 6 - Lucky to get a 6. Picked a great lineup against Ghana, which neutralized their impressive midfield... and than made ridiculous subs against the States you wouldnt expect from a man with such experience... has continually kept faith with an out of form Totti. His continuous decision to select Zaccardo against everyones opinion finally backfired in his face. Im not writing him off. He's a world class coach, and I hope he proves it.
Its time to give Oddo a chance.
My lineup against Australia:
::::::::::: Toni ::::::: Gila ::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Totti ::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::: Perrotta ::::::::::::: Gattuso ::::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Pirlo ::::::::::::::::::::::::::
: Zam :::: Matrix ::: Canna ::::: Oddo :::::::::
:::::::::::::::: Boof ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Totti and Toni given 60 min to impress, otherwise Camoranesi and Pippo to be brought on.
100% agree with you mikey. on the eve of the game, i have to say, im rather calm. usually im a nervous wreck. go figure, since it is now the knockout stages. im sure come gametime i will be my normal self.
for the game, one of the 3 forwards are to be on a very tight leash. i mean, if we dont score in the first half, or are having problems containing the aussies in the middle of the park, we have to strengthen it up with a 4th midfielder.
i pray to God, that lippi doesnt pull any ridiculous changes by bringing on iaquinta or barone. stick to whats working, end of story.
never for a second have i underestimated the aussies, hell, i wanted croatia. but in all respect to the aussies, we should have no problem. i am very confident of progressing and everyone get ready for luca toni to step up.
FORZA AZZURRI
for the game, one of the 3 forwards are to be on a very tight leash. i mean, if we dont score in the first half, or are having problems containing the aussies in the middle of the park, we have to strengthen it up with a 4th midfielder.
i pray to God, that lippi doesnt pull any ridiculous changes by bringing on iaquinta or barone. stick to whats working, end of story.
never for a second have i underestimated the aussies, hell, i wanted croatia. but in all respect to the aussies, we should have no problem. i am very confident of progressing and everyone get ready for luca toni to step up.
FORZA AZZURRI