italy

World Cup appearances: 16

Best World Cup: Champions; 1934, 1938, 1982, 2006

FIFA World Ranking: 5

Nicknames: Azzurri

Manager: Marcello Lippi

 Group – F

Italy Team Profile

Where do we start with the Italians, the current World Cup champions! They are one of the most efficent footballing nations on the planet and rarely will you see an Italian side stroll into the finals and leave with their tails between their legs. This will be their 17^th showing in a World Cup, and while that will sound an incredibly high amount of turnouts, it isn’t the most as Brazil claim that honour, as they’ve appeared in every single World Cup, but the Italians are level in second place alongside the consistent Germans, which just goes to show how consistent a nation Italy are.

The pressure will be on them this time around though, as they are the reigning champions and like all champions they are expect to do well, the fans demand that they do well while every other nation competing will be vying for their crown. However, their squad isn’t one of the strongest travelling to South Africa but their 23 man squad didn’t look all that great in 2006 and that didn’t stop them lifting the prestigious trophy aloft. That was their fourth World Cup success, their first in 24 years, and were they to rule supreme in South Africa they would go level with Brazil on five World Cup’s won.

Betting Brief:

You can’t go far wrong with the Italians as they are one of the more consistent nations around, while you’ll have to stretch all the way back to 1974 for when Italy last failed to bypass the group stages of the competition. Since that disappointing campaign back in 1974, though, Italy have lost twice in the Round of 16 stage (The first knock-out fixture after the groups), lost out in the quarter’s once, and finished in the Semi-Final’s and above in their remaining six appearances, winning two titles along the way. Also, the Italians have a mean final record once they get there, winning four out of six finals they’ve appeared in.

This time, though, the Italians don’t appear to have that strong a squad, and this isn’t made any better by the fact that Marcello Lippi, the Italy manager, tends to prefer experience over youth, and this ageing Italian team looked a dieing breed at the Confederations Cup last year, in which Italy didn’t even make it past the group stage of that competition, being beaten by the Egyptians and getting demolished by a classy Brazil. They do have some serious quality, though, but Lippi has been reluctant to hand some fresh, young blood the opportunity to shine and he will only have a handful of youngsters to choose from in South Africa, unless he picks a few surprise players on squad selection day. However, Davide Santon and Guiseppe Rossi are two bright sparks for Italy, with the latter a serious star in the making, if only Lippi would give them a chance.

World Cup Potential – 3/5

Italy World Cup Betting Odds

Italy to win the World Cup (Outright odds) – 13/1 William Hill

Before the World Cup the odds on Italy were 16/1 

Manager

Marcello Lippi is one of the most successful managers on the planet and has won just about every honour known to man in football as a manager. He has spent all of his managerial days involved with Italy, whether that be with the National side or coaching clubs within Italy. His honours range from winning the Serie A title no less than five times, to winning the UEFA Champions League, all coming when he was at the helm of Juventus during their glory days.

Lippi has been said to have put the morale and spirit of the team before anything else, and believes a positive aurora around the squad is the basis for a successful team. He also believes greatly in the value of teamwork, and is not a fan of selfish individuals who wish to seek out the glory all for themselves. This strict yet honest approach has made him one of the most successful managers in the history of the sport, and the matter of him guiding Italy to the World Cup trophy in 2006 puts him up their as one of the greatest.

Italy Key Players

Gianluigi Buffon (Goalkeeper) – The Juventus shot-stopper has remained as one of the world’s best goalkeepers for well over a decade now and his reliable displays between the sticks has earned him 100 caps for his country and has rarely missed a game an International level, much is his dominance in that position in Italy. He could spend half the game twiddling his thumbs when all of a sudden he will be called upon and nine times out of ten, Buffon delivers with a stunning save. There is no point listing his qualities as he has just about everything a keeper needs to be the very best; he’s quick, extremely agile, cool under pressure and a great defensive organiser.

Fabio Cannavaro – Some will claim he is past it while others reckon he’s one of the best defenders to ever embrace the game. At 36 years or age, Cannavaro will be the oldest player in the Italian squad when they head out to African in the summer, and it comes as no surprise to hear that he is the most capped Italian player earning a staggering 131 caps for his country. However, with all the nostalgic records out of the way, his inclusion into the heart of the Italian defence has been greeted with a mixed response, a lot of it negative, as many believe Cannavaro is too old to keep up with the pace of today’s football and that, although his experience is priceless, a defender with more youth on his side should be his replacement. Lippi, though, has stuck by his captain and will do so during South Africa. Only time will tell as to whether this was a good or bad move, and if we will see Cannavaro lift the Jules Rimet trophy for the second successive time.

Guiseppe Rossi – We’ve mentioned two golden oldies if you like but now it’s time to speak about the Italian’s future star in the making – Guiseppe Rossi. The Villarreal striker hasn’t always been a prominent inclusion in Lippi’s starting line up but his efforts at the Confederations Cup made him the stand out player in what was a poor Italian showing. He is, though, getting more first team action as he steadily improves his game, but his three goals in 14 appearances, albeit most of them from the bench, won’t have warmed the heart of manager, Marcello Lippi. Give the chance, though, Rossi could be one of the stars for Italy in South Africa as he provides Italy with a pacey striking outlet, which differs from their usual hold’em-up style of play with tally, lanky forwards often preferred.

Pro’s / Con’s

Italy’s biggest asset and probably the only fear factor surrounding them is their immense consistency on the big stage. Time and time again the Italians spring a surprise by going further than anyone had previously anticipated before the tournament kicked-off, and this chanted life they live is one of the reasons why most nations will want to avoid the Italians when the knock-out stage of the competition comes around.

Our biggest concern with them is the overall age of their squad. There will be more than half-a-dozen 30+ years old players at the tournament representing Italy, and in a climate where the speed of the game has significantly increased, questions will be asked over whether an ageing Italian side can keep up with the pace of their opponents. This pointer was proved correct in last summers Confederations Cup in which the Italians were knocked out at just the group stage of the competition, losing to both Egypt & Brazil, a thumping defeat to Brazil at that. Italy looked rigid and stiff, with their defence heavily criticised after a poor showing.

Italy Qualification for the World Cup

Italy won Group 8 in the European zone, a group which consisted of some really ordinary nations as well as some really poor nations, so it was no surprise that Italy did qualify as group winners, although they did leave it later than expected. Their main challengers for automatic qualification were the Republic of Ireland & Bulgaria, but neither really pushed the Italians as they qualified with six points in hand over second placed, Republic of Ireland.

To their credit, Italy did remain unbeaten throughout qualifying, winning seven of ten qualifiers, with the remaining three all finishing as draws. They scored 18 goals and conceded just the 7 in return, while Alberto Gilardino finished the campaign as top goalscorer for his country, although his tally of four goals will hardly set the world alight.

Italy did, however, concede five goals in their last two qualifiers at a time when they were all but home and hosed.

Official Italy World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers

Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)

Morgan De Sanctis (SSC Napoli)

Federico Marchetti (Cagliari Calcio)

Defenders

Salvatore Bocchetti (FC Genoa)

Leonardo Bonucci (AS Bari)

Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus)

Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus)

Domenico Criscito (FC Genoa)

Christian Maggio (SSC Napoli)

Gianluca Zambrotta (AC Milan)

Midfielders

Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus Turin)

Daniele De Rossi (AS Roma)

Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan)

Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

Riccardo Montolivo (AC Firenze)

Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria Genoa)

Simone Pepe (Udinese Calcio)

Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)

Strikers

Antonio Di Natale (Udinese Calcio)

Alberto Gilardino (AC Firenze)

Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus)

Giampaolo Pazzini (Sampdoria Genoa)

Fabio Quagliarella (SSC Napoli)

last update: 18 June 2010

World Cup 2010 Italy Fixtures – Group F

World Cup 2010 Group F - Table

World Cup Fixtures and Results

World Cup Odds against Italy

What to make of Italy, the defending World Cup champions? They certainly posed some interesting questions for anyone thinking of backing them in their World Cup betting. If you have already, then you may be a little nervous after their first match of South Africa 2010, but if you know the Italians and their game well, then you may be calm and realise that the Italians are slow starters. Granted, the Italian way is not to come out and run riot in pressing forward and attacking. They like to keep control of the game, by squeezing opposition and are more than happy to sit back and strike on the break. The Italians are probably the best in the world at being able to soak up sustained pressure, and somehow, more often than not, they seem to find a way to break through when it matters most. When they needed a goal to get themselves back into the game against Paraguay, they did it, albeit with a bit of luck after the Paraguay keeper completely misjudged a corner. The match personified what Italy are all about. Not very entertaining, but they are hard to beat in the long run. If you don’t punish them fully by taking your chances when they come, they have a stick ability which has served them well throughout their World Cup years. Coach Marcelo Lippi has experience at the back bone of his team, with World Cup winners around which the rest of the team is build. After all the criticism and doubts about their age, they showed that they have the legs for the tournament, but it was more a question of their quality. Certainly the new look midfield let them down, as the absence of their playmaker Pirlo was clear. But that was only the opening match, in what should be a long campaign for the Italians, and they will duly be unfazed. It is not an Italian side which is as good as the one which lifted the trophy four years ago, that is evident. But it looks to be a team which can grow, and potentially become a force in the tournament. They have been overlooked because of their age, but they should not be solely discounted out of contention because of it. A lesser team would have struggled to get back on even terms against Paraguay, and the Italians will know that that was their toughest game. They will be confident of beating New Zealand, and even if it is by one goal they will be happy. They will be without veteran keeper Gianluigi Buffon who went off injured in their opening fixture, and number two Frederico Marchetti will come in. That won’t take anything away from the Italian back line. Then it will be onto Slovakia in their final game, in another match where they will start as favourites. The Italians do not do things with a great deal of flair, and one area in which they are lacking experience, is up front. They are not blessed with a Roberto Baggio, an Alessandro Del Piero or anyone of such quality, but they have a fight and team spirit togetherness which other nations would be envious. Plus they have their trump card in Lippi. For the Italians, it literally will be all about starting slow and finishing big.

Italy World Cup betting: Italy could get drawn into a tough midfield battle in this one. The current side are not flashy, and Lippi will have had a long hard look at where they fell down in the opening match against Paraguay, and will have corrected things. The Italians simply needed to get a bit wider and earlier balls into penalty area to give their inexperienced strikers something to get on to. If they can bring their one touch passing game, they will pull New Zealand all over the park, and more importantly, keep the ball away from the heart of midfield, where the Kiwis can get stuck in. Defeat really is unthinkable for the Italians in this one, and therefore would get your betting behind Italy. If you are worried about them, then look for Draw No Bet, or find a 0 Asian handicap on them. Winning margin bets would not be a bad market to look in to, as the Italians are the kind of team who will be happy with a 1-0 victory.

Italy World Cup 2010 Stats
Played: P1, W0, D1, L0
GF/GA: 1/1
Cards: Y1, R0
Most Shots: Riccardo Montolivo, 5
Top Scorer: Daniele De Rossi, 1
Shots/On Goal: 10/5
Fouls Committed: 15
Total Passes: 611
Pass Completion: 70%
Last 5 Form: WDLDD

New Zealand looking forward to toughest World Cup test

The White Caps of New Zealand are playing in only their second World Cup, and they will have been delighted with their last minute point earned against Slovakia. New Zealand are the rank outsiders in Group E, and were expected to be walked all over, and now they will face a much tougher test in Italy. One thing the Kiwis will ultimately do, is put in some tough tackling in the midfield, in order to disrupt Italy’s passing game as much as possible. That will be the way to keep themselves in the game as much as possible, and then rely on quick long balls in behind the Italians defence. The Kiwis showed an penchant for the long ball against Slovakia, which ultimately paid off at the last minute, and with the Italian back line perceived as being so slow, it could work to new Zealand’s advantage, especially with the big presence of Shane Smeltz running around up there. Are New Zealand expected to get anything out of this game? Of course not, but then, in the second round of matches, were are seeing some upsets. Mexico toppling France, Algeria holding England, and Serbia beating early pace setters Germany. Italy were among the teams who punters fancied to be the most unsure of getting through their group out of the European nations, which is something of surprise given the easy draw they received. But points need to be earned, and New Zealand will be celebrating their first point and will go up against the World Champions with nothing to lose, and nothing to prove. The Kiwis may get back their vice captain Tim Brown for the Italy game, after he sat out the first match with concerns over his shoulder.

New Zealand World Cup Betting. They will be heavy underdogs for this match, and rightly so. They will play a tenacious, hard game, and won’t give up battling. They should have their hands full in coping with the way the Italians pass and keep the ball, meaning that the Kiwis will probably tire well into the second half. A momentous result for them would be a draw, and while the outright odds on that happening are pretty decent, you may be better served looking for a big plus in the Asian Handicap market for them. As they are expected to lose, anything which pays out on a draw, say around the +1.75 mark should be decent value, as Italy are unlikely to rack up the goals.

New Zealand World Cup 2010 Stats
Played: P1, W0, D1, L0
GF/GA: 1/1
Cards: Y2, R0
Most Shots: Chris Killen, Shane Smeltz, 2
Top Scorer: Winston Reid, 1
Shots/On Goal: 8/2
Fouls Committed: 17
Total Passes: 421
Pass Completion: 76%
Last 5 Form: LLWLD
 

Italy v New Zealand Betting Odds

Italy to win: 2/9 at Bet365
Draw: 6/1 at Ladbrokes
New Zealand to win: 16/1 at BetFred

Asian Handicap Betting Tip: Not particularly great odds around on this one, this is because of Italy being fine with a 1-0 win. Italy should be better than that against New Zealand, but this is almost a first game for them, a chance to stretch their legs without pressure and sharpen their tools up front. Backing Italy anything more than -1.25 probably isn’t worth it, so would swing the other way instead.
New Zealand +1.50 for 11/10 at Bet365
 

Current Italy v New Zealand Odds:

Italy V Paraguay

Kick-off: Monday, 14th June – 19:30 GMT
Stadium: Green Point Stadium, Cape Town
Referee: Benito Archundia (Mexico)
Group F

Italy

It’s sometimes easy to forget that Italy are the reigning world champions after their triumph in Berlin, Germany, four years ago. They had to defy some fairly big odds on that occasion too, as the Azzurri clinched their fourth FIFA World Cup and now trail only Brazil for the amount of times they’ve lifted the coveted trophy, and the Italians could yet match Brazil’s leading haul of five FIFA World Cup’s in South Africa, although clearly bookmakers are of a different opinion.

Marcello Lippi has often been criticised for clinging onto his veterans, those who the public no longer see as key but more past it and over the hill. His 23-man squad for South Africa 2010 contained no less than nine players over the age of 30 and despite the importance of some of those individuals, it has left Lippi open to backlash should Italy not put up a meaningful fight in their defence of the title. They were drawn in a lightweight Group F meaning they should qualify for the knock-outs without too many questions asked of them, but it’s a group which could see the Italians strengthen their claims for a successful defence of their crown should they dish out a few thumpings. That’s never been the way of the Italians though, so expect some clinical displays rather than overwhelming.

Lippi will feel he has the right mix of young and old in his squad, to which he might be proven right over the course of the tournament, but there are certainly question marks over a defence which will be ordered around by the 2006 FIFA Player of the Year Fabio Cannavaro. The former Real Madrid defender now plies his trade over in the UAE and at 36 years-old, will have lost a fair bit of pace. He has tonnes of wisdom in that wise old head of his mind, and considering he was the last man to lift the FIFA World Cup, perhaps his selection wasn’t as surprising as it was made out. Another golden oldie is Gattuso, who at 32 years-old declared his retirement at the end of the finals. He probably won’t play too much in South Africa, as Daniel De Rossi of Roma tends to anchor the midfield alongside the creative Andrea Pirlo, who pulls all the strings from the centre of midfield.

The key area for us is up front, as in previous tournament the Italians have looked extremely lightweight in the attacking third and have been reliant on others, defenders and all, chipping in with a few goals. Consider the majority of their midfielders haven’t scored an international goal, and the same applies to the defenders,  the Italian forwards really do need to earn their money. All the talk pre-World Cup has been about the emergence of Antonio Di Natale, who at 32 has only just began his Italy career really. Their main goal-getter is Alberto Gilardino, who led the line at Germany in 2006 so his presence in the final third of the pitch will surely be felt, while there’s no doubting how good a striker he is when inside the opposing penalty area.

Paraguay

It need some Argentinian steel to see Paraguay qualify for their fourth successive World Cup, with Gerado Martino instrumental at the helm as Guaranies finished third in the South American round of qualifying, with only Chile and the mighty Brazil bettering their accumulation of hard-fought points. There were some memorable results along the way, results which should instil a huge amount of self belief into the Paraguay team; beating Brazil 2-0 and Argentina 1-0, both in Asuncion, Paraguay. So, a match with the reign world champs should be walk in the park for the South American giant killers.

In previous tournaments gone by, Paraguay have generally been considered an easy opponent to face in the group stage because of their lack of quality. Two Round of 16 appearances in their last three World Cup’s does suggest the country is improving and after some of their heroics in qualifying, this buoyant bunch of Paraguayans should fear nobody. They were, though, fairly reliant on their home form as seven of their ten victories came on home soil, so playing on a different continent entirely may not suit a team many deem a potential ‘Dark Horse’.

One of Martino’s first acts as Paraguay manager was to build a formidable defence, one that would be a match for even the best of sides. A pair of to-nil victories over arguably two of the greatest ever World Cup nations, Brazil and Argentina, is a fair enough indication that he has succeed in his mission while only Brazil finished with a leaner defensive record, 11 conceded to Paraguay’s 16. Why do we mention this? Well, because the stars in this Guaranies team lye up front, with Nelson Valdez, Oscar Cardozo, Lucas Barrios, whose found the net three times in three games in the build up to the finals, and Man City’s Roque Santa Cruz. If the defence can re find the sort of form which kept Brazil and Argentina at arms length, Paraguay could produce the first real shock of the tournament were their strikers to remain clinical and composed in front of goal.

There’s every chance that Paraguay can take something positive out of this fixture, and not just a promising display. However, playing out of their comfort zone, which has been at home, has proved an issue of late and even in their warm up matches they found that playing in a completely different environment left them exposed. Like many country’s aiming to make a quick name for themselves by beating one of the fancied teams, Gerado Martino will need to ensure his defence remains alert throughout, with no room whatsoever for complacency.

Match Odds:

Italy – 2.10 Bet365
Draw – 3.30 totesport
Paraguay – 4.30 Boylesports

Our Prediction: Italy to WIN – 2.10 Bet365

The South American’s have come on leaps and bounds since their Round 1 exit in the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where quite clearly the European conditions didn’t suit them. They may well find the change in climate in South Africa won’t aid their chances a great deal either, so playing the current holders of the FIFA World Cup in just their first encounter, without really getting to grips with their South African surrounding, isn’t ideal. Moreover, we cannot disregard just how consistent a nation Italy when it comes to World Cup’s. So often they win games without really deserving the three points, so often they appear ordinary and sluggish in their first outing before growing in confidence as the tournament goes on.

France ’98, the last World Cup where Italy failed to win their opening game of the tournament and with the majority of the footballing world punting on other more fancied country’s, Italy will arrive in South Africa as a bit of a red herring in that no-one really rates them too highly and that will suit Lippi’s Italy down to the ground, as the pressure on them will be minuscule in comparisons to others despite them being the reigning champions. It won’t be pretty, as it never is, but Italy are one of those country’s where you would be foolish to back against them.

Our Recommended Bet: Italy to WIN by 1 Goals – 3.75 Ladbrokes

England

Pre-World Friendly Form: WW

England 3-1 Mexico
England 2-1 Japan

It’s been unconvincing from Fabio Capello’s England up till this point, although the fact they’ve nothced up back-to-back wins before the start of the finals without playing to their full potential has to be a big plus. England found themselves outplayed for the most part against Mexico at Wembley, but the Three Lions took their chances when they came in a clinical manner, whilst relying on some keeping heroics from Robert Green. Many were expecting England to push on from their reasonable opening victory by beating Japan comfortable in Austria. With Japan taking the lead after just six minute, it was patently obvious that another shaky England performance was on the cards, and so it prove to be the case. However, if their fortunate win over a competent Mexico was an indication that the footballing Gods were looking over Capello’s men, their fortuitous turnaround against the Japanese was, with two second half own goals enough to seal a second quick-fire international win.

Without watching either game, you could be forgiven for thinking England head into South Africa with form. Their performances, though, have ranged from lacklustre and lethargic to adequate, with England never getting past 3rd gear in either. One way you could look at it, surely their display can only get better. But there were plenty of mistakes and flaws that their World Cup opponents will look to capitalize on.

The big news, however, was that defensive rock and captain Rio Ferdinand would miss the finals after suffering ligament damage in his knee during training.  As a result, Michael Dawson was recalled and it now leaves Fabio Capello pondering over whether to start with Jamie Carragher or Ledley King in Ferdinand centre-half void. It would appear some of the momentum and confidence gained from two successive friendly wins has now been lost, at such a crucial time as well.

France

Pre-World Friendly Form: LDW

France 2-1 Costa Rica
Tunisia 1-1 France
China 1-0 France

As per usual, France will arrive in South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with little in terms of positive aurora and some winning momentum. Their early victory over Costa Rica, one which was largely undeserved, came when Valbuena scored late on to seal an almost trademark style France win. It was a shaky display all-round from Domenech’s men, with their persistence eventually seeing them run through the finish line first. However, instead of building upon their jammy win, France went in the other direction when drawing 1-1 in Tunisia. It was yet another worrying display from the French team, conceding another early goal before the predictable comeback. This time however, there wasn’t to be a winning finale.

Last and certainly not least, France completed and unwanted set of results, tasting every after-match feeling when losing to China, a team ranked 84 in the FIFA Rankings, thus ensuring the France squad tasted one of each during their World Cup preparations: 1 win, 1 draw and 1 defeat. It was a match France were very much in control in, but a distinct lack of cutting edge aided by some bad luck meant France would arrive in South Africa with an embarrassing loss hanging over them.

Germany

Pre-World Friendly Form: WW

Hungary 0-3 Germany
Germany 3-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina

News that Germany’s influential captain, Michael Ballack, would miss the finals through an ankle injury really did rock the camp and seen the country’s chances of lifting the FIFA World Cup aloft in South Africa decrease significantly as a direct result. If the German squad was reeling over the loss of their captain they weren’t showing it, as in their first warm up game they thrashed an ever-improving Hungary 3-0. The win came in impressive fashion, both in regards to the scoreline and their performance, and it may well have punters re-evaluating Germany’s chances.

Despite a shaky start to their final warm up game against a tricky Bosnia & Herzegovina, Germany ran out comfortable winners and finished the game with style and in an impressive fashion when winning 3-1 thanks to second half strikes from captain Phillip Lahm and Bastien Schweinstieger. The latter’s brace came via the penalty spot although both were put away with aplomb in the absence of Michael Ballack. It was a case of two halfs, with Germany a tad one-paced in the opening 45 minutes but completely dominant in the second, pinning Bosnia back for the entire length of the second period, with two second-half substitutes in particular impressive for Germany in Marko Marin and Cacua.

Ghana

Pre-World Friendly Form: WL

Holland 4-1 Ghana
Ghana 1-0 Latvia

‘The Black Stars’ were given a Dutch spanking in their opening warm up encounter ahead of the finals in Rotterdam, Gyan grabbed Ghana’s one and only goal of the game in a heavy 4-1 defeat. Coach Milovan Rajevac received crushing news when combative midfielder Michael Essien was ruled out of the finals, and Essien’s absence against Holland, a team with real quality, was evident. There were gaping gaps in the centre of the park, they struggled to retain possession and there was a distinct lack of presence and leadership. It was certainly a worrying display from Ghana, and from an African nation where some were touting as serious players this summer, one of the better African nations to challenge for the title itself. Perhaps that is no longer the case without their talisman.

Ghana left it late in their final international before the World Cup, narrowly recording a win over European’s Latvia via a strike from Quincey Owusu-Abeyie in the 88th minute. While not entirely convincing, the win did at least restore some confidence and self-belief that might have been lost following their Holland drubbing days earlier.

Greece

Pre-World Friendly Form:

Greece 2-2 North Korea
Greece 0-2 Paraguay

Led by one of the most respected managers on the international scene, Otto Rehhagel, Greece will have it all to do in South Africa if their display against Korea DPR and Paraguay are anything to go on. Greece were strong favourites to win their opening friendly, a game against the largely unknown North Koreans. When Greece scored just minutes into the game everyone assumed a rout was on the cards, but stunning equaliser sparked the Asian’s into life and thereafter Greece struggled to keep up with their energetic opponents. Rehhagel’s men were actually losing at one stage and had to dig deep just to pick up a draw and save face. The weren’t so lucky against Paraguay though, with another lacklustre performance by the Greek’s enabling the South American’s to stroll towards victory. Sloppy at the back, a severe lack of creativity and guile in the midfield and a couple of forlorn strikers are what Greece have shown us all so far.

Honduras

Pre-World Friendly Form: LDD

Belarus 2-2 Honduras
Azerbaijan 0-0 Honduras
Romania 3-0 Honduras

The Hondurans were a surprise inclusion into this years event and needed a big helping hand from the United States in order to qualify. After that slice of good fortune, Honduras will feel the God’s have blessed them with this golden opportunity and that they must now seize their opportunity. Two draws against less than average opponents haven’t helped their cause nor has it boosted the confidence of the players. Their first came against Belarus, who in fairness do play some decent football. The second stalemate came against Azerbaijan in what can only be described as a shocker of a result as far as Honduras are concerned. Reinauldo Reuda’s men face the likes of Spain and Chile in Group H at South Africa, and if they can’t put Azerbaijan to bed then what chance do they have against nations with genuine quality.

As if a run of two consecutive draws against teams deemed as minnows within their respective zones, Honduras succumbed to defeat in their final game before facing Chile on June 16th by a Romanian side which failed to perform throughout qualifying for South Africa. To make matters worse, combative midfielder Wilson Palacios was stretched off and remains a doubt for South Africa.

Italy

Pre-World Friendly Form: DL

Mexico 2-1 Italy
Switzerland 1-1 Italy

The defending champions have been hugely disappointing during their preparations for South Africa, with a defeat to Mexico followed by an uninspiring 1-1 draw with Switzerland lamenting the concerns of a country eager to defend their title. In both encounters, Marcello Lippi fielded a strong team and the fact that one of the favourites to win this years edition can’t beat two of the outsiders, with Switzerland in particular almost completely ruled out of the outright equation, it does make you think that Italy might not even put up a fight for their crown in South Africa. The Italians are obviously frustrated with their preparations as in both encounters they received several yellow cards. Concerning to say the least for the usual consistent Italians.

Japan

Pre-World Friendly Form: LLL

Japan 0-2 South Korea
England 2-1 Japan
Japan 0- Ivory Coast

Japan’s World Cup preparations have been tortuous to say the least, with Takeshi Okada, the Japan coach which targeted a semi-final appearance in South Africa, having to watch on as Japan record two quick defeats. The first loss was the more damaging as it came against one of their fiercest Asian rivals in a 2-0 defeat by South Korea. To add insult to injury, and to increase the tension and pressure already rapidly building on the Japan camp, the defeat came on home soil in front of their hostile fans.

Their second came in Austria when they took on one of the competition favourites, England. Japan were big odds to spring an upset before kick-off, and with 6 minutes gone and Japan 1-0 up through defender Tulio, a huge turn up for the books was well and truly on. However, while their English opponents at the time were enjoying some good fortune of late, Japan weren’t and their bad luck was compounded with two second half own goals, resulting in a 2-1 defeat for Japan. The positive, however, was firstly Japan taking the lead and maintaining their advantage for over an hour of play, while the second being the fact they more than held their own in the first hour or so, thus proving in a way that Okada’s bold South Africa objective is at least achievable even if it’s extremely unlikely.

In Japan’s third and final international before the do battle in Group E, the Japanese, after previously putting in a valiant display against England, somewhat rolled over against the Ivory Coast. A 2-0 loss to one of the more fancied African nations competing in this month’s finals left Japan with a hat-trick of defeats ahead of a tournament the coach expects to reach the semi-finals. At this rate they’ll be lucky to avoid the wooden spoon in their group.

Spain 1-0 South Korea

Goal(s): J. Navas

Italy 1-2 Mexico

Goal(s): L. Bonucci; C. Vela, A. Medina

Germany 3-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina

Goal(s): P. Lahm, B. Schweinsteiger; E. Dzeko

17:00 GMT – Spain V South Korea

18:15 GMT – Italy V Mexico

19:30 GMT – Germany V Bosnia & Herzegovina

Full Name: Gianluigi Buffon
Date of Birth: 28th January, 1978
Position: Goalkeeper

Current Club: Juventus (Italy)
2009-2010 Appearances: 29

International Appearances: 100

International Accolades: 2006 FIFA World Cup

Rated by some as the best goalkeeper in the world, Gianluigi Buffon is one of a select few international number 1′s which needs not to worry about any challengers for the gloves. The Italian stalwart recently earned his 100 cap with the Italian national team and will be heading to his fourth finals of a World Cup. During that time, Buffon has racked up many club accolades and awards with Juventus – UEFA Cup, Italian Serie A and, astonishingly, goalkeeper of the year for a record nine times in Italy. However, many would argue that none of his achievements at club level come anywhere close to his 2006 triumph in the FIFA World Cup held in Germany.

Very few would disagree with out bold remark that Buffon is one of the best goalkeepers in the modern era. Since the turn of the Millennium, Buffon has been the goalkeeper everyone talks about, the many everyone holds in high regard. The fact Buffon has always had a solid and reliable defence in front of him, especially when playing for Italy, has helped boost his global reputation immensely, but it’s the stunning saves, the unbelievable stops and the commendable manner in which he commands his defences which stands Buffon out from a big crowd.

In South Africa 2010, Gianluigi Buffon will probably need to produce his very best if the Italians are to defend their 2006 crown. The defence in front of him, while they remain talented, aren’t getting any younger and the likelihood is Buffon will be tested throughout the course of the finals. During the 2006 finals in Germany, Buffon kept a staggering five clean sheets in seven games including a 450 minute run without conceding. That’s the magnitude and stature of the player, the fact he doesn’t just persistently help his side win trophies, he sets unbelievable records and streaks.

Buffon played a significant part in helping Italy to their fourth World Cup title, and while South Africa won’t be his last finals, he will need another colossal performance between the sticks if he’s to provide the solid foundations to a strong Italian push in South Africa in the summer. At 32 years-of-age, Gianluigi Buffon still has tonnes more to give and is more than capable of producing some remarkable again.

Gianluigi Buffon Bet: To WIN the 2010 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball – 50/1 Boylesports

The big news in the Italy camp is that neither Alessandro Del Piero nor Francesco Totti were included in Marcello Lippi’s squad. Arguably two of the greatest Italian footballers in the modern era, so it was somewhat ironic that Lippi, a manager with what some would consider a frustrating habit of selecting the older generation of players, hasn’t opted for two players with mass amount of international experience, knowledge and bags of caps.

Italy manager, Marcello Lippi, has been known to edge towards the more experienced players rather than those with youth on their side, so it was a tad surprising to see that neither Alessandro Del Piero nor Francesco Totti were included in Lippi’s provisional squad. Instead, it would appears as though the in form pairing of Antonio Di Natale and Giampaolo Pazzini have etched their way into the front of the forward que alongside Vincenzo Iaquinta and Guiseppe Rossi.

Another big name player to miss out on a phone call from Lippi was Bayern Munich forward Luca Toni, who has spent the latter part of the season on loan at AS Roma in a desperate bid to catch the onlooking eye of Lippi. Toni’s ploy seems to have failed miserably, who after disappointing back in Germany 2006, looks as though he has missed his last chance to shine on the big stage.

It was of little surprise that Buffon was there, one of the best shot-stoppers of the game, while the usual Italian faces of Gattuso, Pirlo, Zambrotta, De Rossi and even Cannavaro, who recently declared he would retire from international football after the South Africa finals, will all brace our TV screens over the summer.

In terms of surprise inclusions, they are few and far between. In fact, we can’t see any, while the actually surprises are those not travelling in Del Piero, Totti and Luca Toni.

Marcello Lippi will need to cut his squad down to size before Italy take on Paraguay in their first Group F encounter. The Italians must also face challenges from New Zealand and Slovakia.

Italy 30-man Squad:

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon, Morgan De Sanctis, Federico Marchetti, Salvatore Sirigu

Defenders: Gianluca Zambrotta, Fabio Cannavaro, Giorgio Chiellini, Christian Maggio, Leonardo Bonucci , Fabio Grosso, Domenico Criscito, Mattia Cassani, Salvatore Bocchetti

Midfielders: Andrea Pirlo, Gennaro Gattuso, Daniele De Rossi, Riccardo Montolivo, Mauro Camoranesi , Angelo Palombo, Antonio Candreva, Andrea Cossu, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Pepe

Forwards: Fabio Quagliarella, Giuseppe Rossi, Vincenzo Iaquinta, Antonio Di Natale, Marco Borriello, Alberto Gilardino, Giampaolo Pazzini