Italy National Team (Azzurri)

[jeemack]

Italy

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/97/FIGC_logo.svg/356px-FIGC_logo.svg.png


* Nickname(s) Azzurri (Blues) *
* Association Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_Football_Federation) (Italian Football Federation) *
* Confederation UEFA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA) (Europe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe)) *
* Head coach Marcello Lippi (http://www.duniasex.com/wiki/Marcello_Lippi) (2008-) *
* Captain Fabio Cannavaro (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Cannavaro) *
* Most caps (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cap_%28sport%29) Paolo Maldini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Maldini) (126) *
* Top scorer Luigi Riva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Riva) (35) *
* FIFA code (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_FIFA_country_codes) ITA *
* FIFA ranking (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Rankings)4 *
* Highest FIFA ranking 1 (November 1993, February 2007
April 2007 - June 2007) *
* Lowest FIFA ranking 16 (April 1998) *
* Elo ranking (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Football_Elo_Ratings) 5 *
* Highest Elo ranking 1 (June 1934-March 1940, December 1940-November 1945, July 2006-August 2006) *
* Lowest Elo ranking 21 (November 1959)*



The Italian national football team (Nazionale italiana di Calcio) is controlled by the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_Football_Federation) and represents Italy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy) in international football (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_%28soccer%29) competition. They are the current World Champions, having won the 2006 FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup).
Italy is among the top teams in international football and the second most successful national team in World Cup play, having won four World Cups (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup) (1934 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1934_FIFA_World_Cup), 1938 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938_FIFA_World_Cup), 1982 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cup), 2006 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup)), just one fewer than Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_team). To this tally they can add one European championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_European_Football_Championship) (1968 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_UEFA_European_Football_Championship)), and one Olympic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_at_the_Summer_Olympics) Gold Medal (1936 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_at_the_1936_Summer_Olympics)).

The traditional colour of the national team (as well as of all Italian teams and athletes except in motor sports) is light blue[1] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-0) (azzurro, in Italian (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_language)), and therefore national team members are nicknamed Azzurri.


History

Origins and first two World Cups (1910–1938)

The team's first match was held in Milan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milan) on 15 May (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_15) 1910 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1910); Italy defeated France (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_team) by a score of 6-2.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-1)
The first success in an official tournament came with the bronze medal in 1928 Summer Olympics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1928_Summer_Olympics), held in Amsterdam (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amsterdam). After losing the semi-final against Uruguay (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uruguay_national_football_team), a victory for 11-3 against Egypt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egypt_national_football_team) secured third place in the competition.
After declining to participate in the first World Cup (1930 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1930_FIFA_World_Cup), in Uruguay), the Italian national team won two consecutive editions of the tournament in 1934 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1934_FIFA_World_Cup) and 1938 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938_FIFA_World_Cup), under the lead of coach Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) and thanks to the genius of Giuseppe Meazza (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Meazza), one of the best Italian players ever.
In the 1934 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1934_FIFA_World_Cup), the host Azzurri defeated Czechoslovakia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czechoslovakia_national_football_team) 2–1 in Rome (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome), with goals by Raimundo Orsi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raimundo_Orsi) and Angelo Schiavio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angelo_Schiavio).
Italy won the Gold medal in the 1936 Summer Olympics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1936_Summer_Olympics), held in Berlin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin), thanks to a victory in the final match against Austria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austria_national_football_team).
Italy's predominance on international football in the 1930s was confirmed by the victory in 1938 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938_FIFA_World_Cup). The Italian team beat Hungary (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hungary_national_football_team) 4–2 in Paris (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris), with two goals by Silvio Piola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvio_Piola) (the all-time top scorer in Italian football) and two by Gino Colaussi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gino_Colaussi).


Post-World War II (1946–1966)

After World War II (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II), the Italian national team did not perform at its pre-war levels.
The tragic loss in 1949 of the players of Torino (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torino_F.C.) (the winners of the previous four Serie A (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serie_A) titles) in the Superga air disaster (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superga_air_disaster) saw the loss of ten out of the eleven constituting the initial line-up for the national team. The following year, Italy did not advance further than the first round of the 1950 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1950_FIFA_World_Cup), partly due to the long and physically devastating boat trip to Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil).
In the World Cup finals of 1954 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1954_FIFA_World_Cup) and the 1962 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1962_FIFA_World_Cup) that followed, Italy again failed to progress past the first round, and did not even qualify for the 1958 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1958_FIFA_World_Cup). During the early 1960s, although Italian football clubs like AC Milan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.C._Milan) and Internazionale (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internazionale_Milano_F.C.) ruled the international scene, the National team was unable to replicate these results. Italy did not take part in the first edition of the European Championship in 1960 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) (then known as the European Nations Cup), and was knocked out by the USSR (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USSR_national_football_team) in the round of 16 (second round) of the 1964 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1964_UEFA_European_Football_Championship).
Their participation in the 1966 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1966_FIFA_World_Cup) is always remembered for their 0–1 defeat at the hands of North Korea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Korean_national_football_team). Despite being the tournament favourites, the Azzurri, whose 1966 squad was rich with talent including Rivera (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Rivera) and Bulgarelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacomo_Bulgarelli), were eliminated in the first round by the semi-professional North Koreans and bitterly condemned upon their return home, while North Korean scorer Pak Do Ik was celebrated as the David (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David) who killed Goliath (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goliath).[6] (http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/p/cg/por_prk_1966.html)


European champions and World Cup runners-up (1968–1976)

In 1968, the Azzurri won their first major competition since the 1938 World Cup, defeating Yugoslavia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yugoslavia_national_football_team) in Rome for the European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) title. The match holds the distinction of being the only major football tournament final to go to a replay. After extra time it ended in a 1-1 draw, and in the days before penalty shootouts, the rules required the match to be re-played a few days later. Italy won the replay 2-0 (with goals from Riva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Riva) and Anastasi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pietro_Anastasi)) to lift the trophy.
Two years later, the defending European Champions reached the final of the 1970 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1970_FIFA_World_Cup), held in Mexico. First, Italy won its first round group scoring only one goal, after a series of dull, uninspired games against Sweden (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden_national_football_team), Uruguay (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uruguay_national_football_team), and Israel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_national_football_team). The quarter-finals saw a transformed Italy prevail 4-1 over host Mexico (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico_national_football_team) after trailing 0-1. Then, the semi-final between Italy and West Germany (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Germany_national_football_team) went into the legend as one of the greatest games ever. This match, won by 4-3 after extra time, is known as the Game of the Century (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_of_the_Century_%28football%29), and a marker at the Estadio Azteca (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estadio_Azteca) in Mexico City still commemorates it. Italy took a 1-0 lead through Boninsegna (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Boninsegna) on 8', then Germany pressed to equalize for the rest of the game, until the very end when sweeper Schnellinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl-Heinz_Schnellinger), then with Italy's AC Milan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.C._Milan) club, scored in injury time (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Injury_time). In extra time, Müller (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerd_M%C3%BCller) brought Germany the lead on 94' before Italian defender Burgnich (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarcisio_Burgnich) leveled the score with a rare international goal. On 104', Riva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Riva) made it 3-2, only for Müller to equalize six minutes later. The TV cameras were still replaying this goal when Rivera (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Rivera) finely volleyed a cross by Boninsegna for the winning goal in the 111'. For the very first time, people gathered in the streets of Italy in the late night to cheer for the victory, and after many years this game still remains the most noted in Italian football history.
In the two games against Mexico and West Germany, coach Ferruccio Valcareggi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferruccio_Valcareggi) had Rivera replace Mazzola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Mazzola) in a programmed second half substitution, that was then called staffetta (meaning relay as in athletics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athletics_%28track_and_field%29)). This tactic was not repeated in the final, where Italy was defeated by Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_team). During the first half, Boninsegna answered Pelé (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pel%C3%A9)'s 18' goal. In the second half, Brazil's firepower was simply too much for a tired Italian side, and the final 4-1 result consecrated Brazil as tri-campeão (three-time champion).
This generation of great Italian players, like Riva, Rivera, Mazzola and Facchetti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacinto_Facchetti), didn't keep up the same level during the next 1972 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1972_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) where they didn't qualify to the play-offs. In 1973 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1973) they obtained prestigious victories in friendly matches, beating Brazil and twice England. In particular, Italy stormed Wembley Stadium (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wembley_Stadium_%281924%29), winning 1-0 with a goal by Fabio Capello (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Capello). Despite these encouraging premises, coach Valcareggi was to resign after the elimination of the Italian team in the first round of the 1974 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1974_FIFA_World_Cup). Italy was as well eliminated at an early stage in 1976 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1976_UEFA_European_Football_Championship)


World Cup winners for the third time (1978–1982)

1978 FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1978_FIFA_World_Cup), held in Argentina, saw a new generation of Italian players, the most famous being Paolo Rossi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Rossi), coming to the international stage. Italy played very well in the first round, being the only team in the tournament to beat the latter World Champion and host team Argentina (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_team). Second round games against West Germany (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_national_football_team), Austria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austria_national_football_team) and Netherlands (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netherlands_national_football_team) led Italy to the third place final, where it was defeated by Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_team) 2-1. As in the match against the Netherlands, Italian goalkeeper Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) was beaten by a long-distance shot and thus blamed as the main responsible of the defeat. Italy then organized the 1980 UEFA European Football Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1980_UEFA_European_Football_Championship), the first edition to be held between eight teams instead of four, and with the host team automatically qualified for the finals. Italy was beaten by Czechoslovakia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czechoslovakia_national_football_team) in the third place match after penalties.
After a clamorous scandal in the Serie A (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serie_A), where also few National Team players like Paolo Rossi were prosecuted and suspended for fixed games and illegal bets, the Azzurri arrived to the 1982 FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cup) among general scepticism and discomfort. Italy qualified to the second round after a series of uninspiring matches against Poland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poland_national_football_team), Peru (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peru_national_football_team) and Cameroon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cameroon_national_football_team). Being violently criticized, the Italian team decided a press black-out from then on, with only coach Enzo Bearzot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enzo_Bearzot) and captain Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) appointed to speak with the press.
Italy's strength was finally shown in the second round group, a true Group of Death with Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_team) and Argentina (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_team). In the opener, Italy prevailed 2-1 over Diego Maradona (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_Maradona)'s side after an ill-tempered, obscure battle in which Italy's defenders and midfielders proved their mastery in the rougher side of the game. The winning goals were scored by Marco Tardelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Tardelli) and Antonio Cabrini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cabrini). After Brazil defeated Argentina 3-1, Italy was obliged to win to pass to semifinals. Twice Italy went in the lead on Paolo Rossi goals, and twice Brazil came back. With the 2-2 scored by Paulo Roberto Falcão (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulo_Roberto_Falc%C3%A3o), Brazil would have been through on goal difference, but on 74' Rossi scored the winning goal sending Italy to the semifinals in one of the all-time great games of World Cup history[7] (http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/p/cg/ita_bra_1982.html). In the wake of its brilliant second round performance, Italy easily dispatched Poland in the first semi-final through two goals scored by Rossi.
In the final match, Italy met their traditional opponent West Germany (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_national_football_team), who were coming from a penalty shoot-out against France. The first half ended without goals, after Cabrini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cabrini) missed a penalty for Italy. In the second half Paolo Rossi again scored the first goal, and while the Germans were trying to balance the result, Marco Tardelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Tardelli) and Alessandro Altobelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Altobelli) scored 3-0, before Paul Breitner (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Breitner) could score West Germany's consolation goal seven minutes from end.

http://www.insanus.org/impedimento/tardelli.jpg
Tardelli's famous roar of joy after scoring against West Germany in the 1982 World Cup final.

World Cup and European Championship runners-up (1984–2004)

For twenty-four years following the 1982 triumph, the Azzurri figured prominently on the world stage but did not win another tournament. Italy failed to qualify for the 1984 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1984_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) and were knocked out in the Round of 16 of the 1986 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1986_FIFA_World_Cup) by France (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_team). 1988 saw them reach the semi-finals of the European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1988_UEFA_European_Football_Championship), where they were defeated 2-0 by USSR (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USSR_national_football_team).
Italy hosted the World Cup for the second time in 1990 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1990_FIFA_World_Cup). The Italian attack featured forwards Salvatore Schillaci (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvatore_Schillaci) and a young Roberto Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Baggio). Despite being favourites[8] (http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news?slug=reu-worldhistory19821990dc&prov=reuters&type=lgns) to win and not conceding a goal during five matches, Italy was knocked-out in the semi-final by defending World Champion Argentina (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_team), losing 4-3 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw after extra time; Aldo Serena (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldo_Serena) missed the final penalty kick (with Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) having earlier had his penalty saved). Italy went on to defeat England (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England_national_football_team) 2-1 in the third place match. Italy then failed to qualify for the 1992 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1992_UEFA_European_Football_Championship).
In the 1994 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994_FIFA_World_Cup), Italy started slowly but reached the final. They lost the opening match against Ireland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Ireland_national_football_team) 0-1, this being the only match Italy would lose (not counting games lost after shootout) over the span of three World Cup finals from 1990 to 1998, but advanced from Group E (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994_FIFA_World_Cup#Group_E) based on goals scored among the four teams tied on points. In the Round of 16, Italy was down 0-1 late against Nigeria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria_national_football_team), but Roberto Baggio equalized in the 89th minute and scored the go-ahead goal in extra time.[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-2) Baggio scored another late goal against Spain (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain_national_football_team) in the quarter-final to seal a 2-1 win and two goals against Bulgaria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulgaria_national_football_team) in the semi-final for another 2-1 win.[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-3)[5] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-4) In the final, Italy and Brazil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_team) played 120 minutes of scoreless football, taking the match to penalty shootout (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penalty_shootout_%28football%29). Italy lost the subsequent shootout 3-2 after Baggio missed the final penalty kick of the match, shooting over the crossbar.[6] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-5)
Italy didn't progress beyond the group stage during the finals of Euro 96 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro_96). Again, Gianfranco Zola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianfranco_Zola) failed to convert a decisive penalty against Germany, who eventually won the tournament. Then, during the qualification for the 1998 FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIFA_World_Cup), the Azzurri beat England (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England_national_football_team) in Wembley (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wembley_Stadium_%281924%29) for the second time, 1-0 with a goal by Zola. In the final tournament (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIFA_World_Cup), Italy found themselves in another critical shootout, for the third World Cup in a row. The Italian side, where Del Piero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Del_Piero) and Baggio renewed the controversial staffetta (relay) between Mazzola and Rivera from 1970, held to a 0-0 draw the eventual World Champions and host team France (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_team) after extra time in the quarter-finals, but lost 4-3 in the shootout. With two goals scored in this tournament, Roberto Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Baggio) is still the only Italian player who scored in three different FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup) editions.
In Euro 2000 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000_UEFA_European_Football_Championship), another shootout was this time to favour Italy, in the semi-final against co-host nation, Netherlands (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netherlands_national_football_team). Italian goalkeeper Francesco Toldo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Toldo) saved one penalty during the match and two during the shootout, while the Dutch players missed one other penalty during the match and one during the shootout with a rate of one penalty scored out of six attempts. Emerging football star Francesco Totti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti) scored his penalty with a cucchiaio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti#Additional_information) (spoon) chip. Italy finished the tournament as runners-up, losing the final 2–1 against France (to a golden goal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_goal) in extra time), after conceding les Bleus' equalizing goal just 30 seconds before the end of injury time (94'). After the defeat, coach Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) resigned after being clamorously criticized by A.C. Milan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.C._Milan) president and politician Silvio Berlusconi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvio_Berlusconi).
In the 2002 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_FIFA_World_Cup) co-host country South Korea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea_national_football_team) knocked out Italy in the Round of 16, reviving the 1966 nightmare. The match was marked by controversy, as referee Byron Moreno (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byron_Moreno) gave Francesco Totti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti) a second yellow card in extra time for an alleged dive, and disallowed an Italian goal. Replays seemed to indicate both that the card was unfounded and the goal was good, but the decisions stood and South Korea won 2-1, again with a golden goal in extra time.[7] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-6).
A three-way tie in the group stage of the 2004 European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) left Italy as the "odd man out", and they failed to qualify for the quarter-finals, finishing behind Denmark (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denmark_national_football_team) and Sweden (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden_national_football_team) on the basis of number of goals scored in matches among the tied teams.[8] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-7) The winning goal scored during stoppage time (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoppage_time) against Bulgaria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulgaria_national_football_team) by Cassano (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cassano) resulted useless, leaving the Italian striker in tears at the end of the game.


2006 World Cup: Champions for the fourth time

Italy's campaign in the 2006 World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup), held in Germany, was followed by open pessimism[9] (http://english.people.com.cn/200605/23/eng20060523_267753.html), caused by the controversies following clamorous 2006 Serie A scandal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_Serie_A_scandal). But these predictions were then going to be refuted, since Azzurri eventually won their fourth World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup).
Italy won their opening game against Ghana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghana_national_football_team) 2-0, with goals coming from Andrea Pirlo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_Pirlo) (40') and Vincenzo Iaquinta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincenzo_Iaquinta) (83'). The team performance was judged the best among the opening games by FIFA president Sepp Blatter (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepp_Blatter)[10] (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/06/12/AR2006061201171.html).
The second match was a much less convincing 1-1 draw with USA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA_national_football_team), with the opening goal by Alberto Gilardino (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alberto_Gilardino) equalized by a Cristian Zaccardo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cristian_Zaccardo) own goal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Own_goal). After the equalizing goal, Daniele De Rossi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniele_De_Rossi) and two American players were sent off, leaving only nineteen men on the field for nearly the entirety of the second half, but the score remained the same. De Rossi was suspended for four matches for elbowing American player Brian McBride (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_McBride) and could only return for the final match.
Italy finished on top of Group E with a neat 2-0 win against the Czech Republic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czech_Republic_national_football_team), with goals from Marco Materazzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Materazzi) (26') and Filippo Inzaghi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filippo_Inzaghi) (87'), advancing to the Round of 16 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup#Round_of_16) in the knockout stages (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup#knockout_stages), where Australia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia_national_football_team) were beaten 1-0. In this match, Materazzi was controversially (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup_controversies#Italy_vs._Austra lia_.28Second_round.29) sent off early in the second half, but in the end the Azzurri won with a controversial penalty kick, won by Fabio Grosso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Grosso) and converted in the 95th minute by Totti.
The quarter-final match was a 3-0 victory against Ukraine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukraine_national_football_team), with Gianluca Zambrotta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Zambrotta) opening the scoring (6') and Luca Toni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Toni) scoring twice (59' and 69'). Manager Marcello Lippi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcello_Lippi) dedicated the victory to former Italian international Gianluca Pessotto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Pessotto), who was recovering from an alleged suicide attempt.[9] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-8)
In the semi-final, that would be remembered as the most memorable game of the event, Italy beat hosts Germany (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_national_football_team) 2-0, with the two goals coming in the last two minutes of extra-time. Fabio Grosso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Grosso) scored the first goal in the 119th minute, after a disguised Pirlo pass found him open in the penalty area, and Alessandro Del Piero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Del_Piero) sealed the victory, by scoring in the last minute of extratime.
The Azzurri won their fourth World Cup, defeating France (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_team) in Berlin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin), on July 9 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/July_9), 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at the end of extra time. French captain Zinedine Zidane (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinedine_Zidane) opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a tricky penalty kick, controversially awarded for a foul by Materazzi. Twelve minutes later, a header by Materazzi, from a perfectly placed corner by Pirlo, scored the equalizer. In the second half, a headed goal by Toni was nullified for an offside. At 110', Zidane was sent off after a head butt, provoked by an insult directed at him by Materazzi; the two players were eventually fined by the FIFA. Italy then won the penalty shoot-out 5-3, after David Trézéguet (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Tr%C3%A9z%C3%A9guet)'s attempt hit the crossbar and Italy scoring on all five attempts, Grosso converting the final penalty past French keeper Barthez.
Ten different players scored for Italy and five goals out of twelve were scored by substitutes, while four goals were scored by defenders. Seven players - Gianluigi Buffon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluigi_Buffon), Fabio Cannavaro (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Cannavaro), Zambrotta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Zambrotta), Pirlo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_Pirlo), Gennaro Gattuso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gennaro_Gattuso), Totti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti) and Toni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Toni) - were named to the 23-man tournament All Star Team (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup_awards#All-Star_Team).[10] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-9) Buffon also won the Lev Yashin Award (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup_awards#Yashin_Award), given to the best goalkeeper of the tournament; he conceded only two goals in the tournament, the first an own goal by Zaccardo and the second from Zidane's penalty, and remained unbeaten for 460 consecutive minutes.[11] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-10)

http://gallery.figc.it/italiano/gallery/gallery_naz_a/090706_italia_francia_wc2006_gmt2/11_photo_g.jpg
Coach Lippi with the Trophy

http://gallery.figc.it/italiano/gallery/gallery_naz_a/090706_italia_francia_wc2006_sab/09_photo_g.jpg




After the World Cup

Days after the Italian triumph in the World Cup, Lippi announced his resignation.[12] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-11)1994 World Cup star Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) was announced the new coach of the Azzurri on July 13 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/July_13). Italy is currently playing in the 2008 UEFA European Football Championship qualifying Group B (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_UEFA_European_Football_Championship_qualifyin g_Group_B), along with France (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_team).[13] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-12) On February 14 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_14), 2007 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007), FIFA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA) ranked Italy 1st in the FIFA World Rankings (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Rankings), moving them up one from their previous rank, 2nd. The Azzurri had not received such an honour since 1993.[14] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Italy_national_football_team&printable=yes#_note-13)



Tournament Records





World Cup Record

1930 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1930_FIFA_World_Cup) : Did not enter
1934 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1934_FIFA_World_Cup) : Champions
1938 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938_FIFA_World_Cup) : Champions
1950 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1950_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round 1
1954 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1954_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round 1
1958 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1958_FIFA_World_Cup) : Did Not Qualify
1962 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1962_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round 1
1966 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1966_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round 1
1970 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1970_FIFA_World_Cup) : Runners Up
1974 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1974_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round 1
1978 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1978_FIFA_World_Cup) : Fourth Place
1982 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cup) : Champions
1986 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1986_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round of 16
1990 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1990_FIFA_World_Cup) : 3rd Place
1994 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1994_FIFA_World_Cup) : Runners Up
1998 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIFA_World_Cup) : Quarter Final
2002 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_FIFA_World_Cup) : Round of 16
2006 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup) : Champions



European Championship record

1960 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not enter
1964 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1964_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not qualify
1968 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Champions
1972 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1972_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not qualify
1976 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1976_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not qualify
1980 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1980_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Fourth place
1984 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1984_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not qualify
1988 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1988_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Semifinals
1992 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1992_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Did not qualify
1996 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1996_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Round 1
2000 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2000_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Runners-up
2004 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — Round 1
2008 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_UEFA_European_Football_Championship) — (Qualifying Round in progress (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_UEFA_European_Football_Championship_qualifyin g))


Honours




This is a list of honours for all of the senior Italian national teams, including Olympic and Military teams

FIFA World Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup): 4
1934 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1934_FIFA_World_Cup), 1938 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1938_FIFA_World_Cup), 1982 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cup), 2006 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cup)

European Championship (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_European_Football_Championship): 1
1968 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_UEFA_European_Football_Championship)

Football at the Summer Olympics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_at_the_Summer_Olympics) Gold medal: 1
1936 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_at_the_1936_Summer_Olympics)

Central European Champions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_European_International_Cup): 2
1927-30, 1933-35

World Military Cup (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Military_Cup) : 8
1950, 1951, 1956, 1959, 1973, 1987, 1989, 1991

[jeemack]

Coaches

During the earliest days of Italian nation football, it was common for a Technical Commission to be appointed. The Commission took the role that a standard coach would currently play. Since 1967, the national team has been controlled only by coaches.



For this reason, the coach of the Italian national team is still called Technical Commissioner (Commissario tecnico o CT).

Technical Commission (1910–1912)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1912)
Technical Commission (1912–1924)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1924)
Technical Commission (1924–1925)
Augusto Rangone (1925–1928)
Carlo Carcano (1928–1929)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1929–1948) — World Champions 1934, World Champions 1938
Ferruccio Novo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferruccio_Novo) (1949–1950) — as Technical Commission Chairman
Technical Commission (1951)
Carlino Beretta (1952–1953)
Technical Commission (1953–1959)
Giuseppe Viani (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Giuseppe_Viani&action=edit) (1960)
Giovanni Ferrari (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Ferrari) (1960–1961)
Technical Commission (1962)
Edmondo Fabbri (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmondo_Fabbri) (1962–1966)
Technical Commission (1966–1967)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Valcareggi.jpg Ferruccio Valcareggi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferruccio_Valcareggi) (1967–1974) — European Champions 1968, Runners-Up World Cup 1970

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/BernardiniF.jpg Fulvio Bernardini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulvio_Bernardini) (1974–1975)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Bearzot1.jpg Enzo Bearzot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enzo_Bearzot) (1975–1986) — World Champions 1982
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Vicini.jpg Azeglio Vicini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azeglio_Vicini) (1986–1991) — 3rd Place World Cup 1990
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Sacchi.jpg Arrigo Sacchi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrigo_Sacchi) (1991–1996) — Runners-Up World Cup 1994
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Maldini.jpg Cesare Maldini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cesare_Maldini) (1997–1998)
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/ZoffD1.jpg Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) (1998–2000) — Runners-Up European Championships 2000
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/TrapattoniSqr.jpg Giovanni Trapattoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Trapattoni) (2000–2004)
http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Lippi.jpg Marcello Lippi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcello_Lippi) (2004–2006) — World Champions 2006

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Donadoni.gif Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) (2006-2008)


http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Lippi.jpg Marcello Lippi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcello_Lippi) (2008–current)


Notable players

Players are ordered by year of debut with national football team




1915

Luigi Cevenini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Cevenini) (MF)
1920

Virginio Rosetta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginio_Rosetta) (MF)
1924

Giampiero Combi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giampiero_Combi) (GK)
Felice Levratto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felice_Levratto) (FW)
1926

Attilio Ferraris (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attilio_Ferraris) (MF)
1929

Raimundo Orsi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raimundo_Orsi) (FW)
1930

Giovanni Ferrari (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Ferrari) (MF)
Giuseppe Meazza (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Meazza) (FW)
1932

Luis Monti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Monti) (MF)
1935

Silvio Piola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvio_Piola) (FW)
1938

Amedeo Biavati (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amedeo_Biavati) (FW)
1942

Valentino Mazzola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentino_Mazzola) (MF)
1947

Giampiero Boniperti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giampiero_Boniperti) (FW)
1949

Amedeo Amadei (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amedeo_Amadei) (FW)
1961

Enrico Albertosi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enrico_Albertosi) (GK)
Mario Corso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mario_Corso) (MF)
1962

Gianni Rivera (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Rivera) (MF)
1963

Giacinto Facchetti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacinto_Facchetti) (DF)
Sandro Mazzola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandro_Mazzola) (FW)
1964

Armando Picchi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armando_Picchi) (DF)
1965

Luigi Riva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Riva) (FW)
1967

Roberto Boninsegna (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Boninsegna) (FW)
1968

Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) (GK)
1971

Romeo Benetti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romeo_Benetti) (MF)
Claudio Sala (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudio_Sala) (MF)
1972

Fabio Capello (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Capello) (MF)
Franco Causio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco_Causio) (MF)
Giorgio Chinaglia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giorgio_Chinaglia) (FW)
1973

Paolo Pulici (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Pulici) (FW)
1974

Giancarlo Antognoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giancarlo_Antognoni) (MF)
1975

Roberto Bettega (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Bettega) (FW)
Claudio Gentile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudio_Gentile) (DF)
Francesco Graziani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Graziani) (FW)
Gaetano Scirea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaetano_Scirea) (DF)
1976

Marco Tardelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Tardelli) (MF)
1977

Paolo Rossi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Rossi) (FW)
1978

Antonio Cabrini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cabrini) (DF)
Gabriele Oriali (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabriele_Oriali) (MF)
1979

Fulvio Collovati (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulvio_Collovati) (DF)
1980

Alessandro Altobelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Altobelli) (FW)
Bruno Conti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruno_Conti) (MF)
1982

Franco Baresi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco_Baresi) (DF)
Giuseppe Bergomi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Bergomi) (DF)
1986

Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) (MF)
1984

Roberto Mancini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Mancini) (FW)
1985

Gianluca Vialli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Vialli) (FW)
1986

Walter Zenga (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Zenga) (GK)
1988

Roberto Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Baggio) (MF)
Paolo Maldini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Maldini) (DF)
1990

Salvatore Schillaci (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvatore_Schillaci) (FW)
1991

Demetrio Albertini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demetrio_Albertini) (MF)
Dino Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Baggio) (MF)
Alessandro Costacurta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Costacurta) (DF)
Alberigo Evani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alberigo_Evani) (MF)
Gianluca Pagliuca (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Pagliuca) (GK)
Gianfranco Zola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianfranco_Zola) (MF)
1992

Giuseppe Signori (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Signori) (FW)
1993

Fabio Cannavaro (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Cannavaro) (DF)
1995

Angelo Peruzzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angelo_Peruzzi) (GK)
Fabrizio Ravanelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabrizio_Ravanelli) (FW)
Francesco Toldo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Toldo) (GK)
Alessandro Del Piero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Del_Piero) (FW)
1996

Alessandro Nesta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Nesta) (DF)
1997

Gianluigi Buffon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluigi_Buffon) (GK)
Christian Vieri (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Vieri) (FW)
1999

Gianluca Zambrotta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Zambrotta) (DF)
2000

Gennaro Gattuso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gennaro_Gattuso) (MF)
Francesco Totti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti) (FW)
2001

Marco Materazzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Materazzi) (DF)
2002

Andrea Pirlo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_Pirlo) (MF)
2003

Fabio Grosso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Grosso) (DF)
2004

Luca Toni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Toni) (FW)



All Time Goal Scorers

LEGEND: Nr.of Goals, Surname, Name, Position, Club, Goals from Club, Oriundo: Home country.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: GK - Goalkeeper, DF - Defender, MF - Midfielder, AT - Attacker


http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/riva2.jpg
35 RIVA Luigi (AT) (Cagliari 35)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/meazza2.jpg
33 MEAZZA Giuseppe (MF) (Inter 33)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/piola2.jpg
30 PIOLA Silvio (AT) (Lazio 28, Juventus 2, Novara 0)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/BaggioR.jpg
27 BAGGIO Roberto (MF) (Fiorentina 5, Juventus 19, Milan 1, Bologna 2, Inter 0, Brescia 0)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/DelPiero6.jpg
27 DEL PIERO Alessandro (AT) (Juventus 27)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/altobelli.jpg
25 ALTOBELLI Alessandro (AT) (Inter 25)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Baloncieri.jpg
25 BALONCIERI Adolfo (MF) (Alessandria 7, Torino 18)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/InzaghiF4.jpg
25 INZAGHI Filippo (AT) (Atalanta 0, Juventus 15, Milan 10)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/graziani.jpg
23 GRAZIANI Francesco (AT) (Torino 20, Fiorentina 3)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/vieriC.jpg
23 VIERI Christian (AT) (Juventus 1, Atletico Madrid 6, Lazio 2, Inter 13, Milan 1)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/MazzolaA2.jpg
22 MAZZOLA Alessandro (MF) (Inter 22)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/rossiP.jpg
20 ROSSI Paolo (AT) (Vicenza 7, Perugia 0, Juventus 13, Milan 0)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/bettega.jpg
19 BETTEGA Roberto (AT) (Juventus 19)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/vialli.jpg
16 VIALLI Gianluca (AT) (Sampdoria 14, Juventus 2)

15 TONI Luca (AT) (Palermo 2, Fiorentina 10, Bayer Munich 3)
15 COLAUSSI Gino (AT) (Triestina 15)
15 LIBONATTI Julio (AT) (Torino 15) Oriundo: Argentina
15 SCHIAVIO Angelo (AT) (Bologna 15)

14 FERRARI Giovanni (MF) (Alessandria 0, Juventus 10, Inter 4)
14 RIVERA Gianni (MF) (Milan 14)

13 CASIRAGHI Pier L. (AT) (Juventus 2, Lazio 11)
13 MAGNOZZI Mario (MF) (Livorno 12, Milan 1)
13 ORSI Raimondo (AT) (Juventus 13) Oriundo: Argentina

11 CEVENINI Luigi (MF) (Inter 11, Novese 0, Juventus 0)
11 LEVRATTO Virgilio F. (AT) (Vado 0, Verona 2, Genoa 9)

10 CARAPELLESE Riccardo (AT) (Milan 7, Torino 2, Genoa 1)
10 ZOLA Gianfranco (MF) (Napoli 0, Parma 7, Chelsea 3)



All Time Appearances

LEGEND: Nr.of Games, Surname, Name, Position, Date of Debute, Club, Games from Club, Oriundo: Home country.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: GK - Goalkeeper, DF - Defender, MF - Midfielder, AT - Attacker.


http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/MaldiniP.jpg
126 MALDINI Paolo (DF) 31-03-1988 (Milan 126)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Cannavaro_F.gif
116 CANNAVARO Fabio (DF) 22-01-1997 (Parma 61, Inter 19, Juventus 20, R Madrid 16)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/zoff.jpg
112 ZOFF Dino (GK) 20-04-1968 (Napoli 19, Juventus 93)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/facchetti.jpg
94 FACCHETTI Giacinto (DF) 27-03-1963 (Inter 94)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/DelPiero6.jpg
89 DEL PIERO Alessandro (AT) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 89)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/BuffonG5.jpg
86 BUFFON Gianluigi (GK) 29-10-1997 (Parma 20, Juventus 66)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/baresiF.jpg
81 BARESI Franco (DF) 04-12-1982 (Milan 81)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/bergomi.jpg
81 BERGOMI Giuseppe (DF) 14-04-1982 (Inter 81)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Tardelli.jpg
81 TARDELLI Marco (MF) 07-04-1976 (Juventus 80, Inter 1)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/albertini.jpg
79 ALBERTINI Demetrio (MF) 21-12-1991 (Milan 79)

http://forza_azzurri.homestead.com/files/Nesta1.gif
78 NESTA Alessandro (DF) 05-10-1996 (Lazio 47, Milan 31)

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78 SCIREA Gaetano (DF) 30-12-1975 (Juventus 78)


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75 ZAMBROTTA Gian Luca (DF) 10-02-1999 (Bari 2, Juventus 56, Barcelona 17)

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73 ANTOGNONI Giancarlo (MF) 20-11-1974 (Fiorentina 73)

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73 CABRINI Antonio (DF) 02-06-1978 (Juventus 73)

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71 GENTILE Claudio (DF) 19-04-1975 (Juventus 71)

70 MAZZOLA Alessandro (MF) 12-05-1963 (Inter 70)

66 BURGNICH Tarcisio (DF) 10-11-1963 (Inter 66)

64 GRAZIANI Francesco (AT) 19-04-1975 (Torino 47, Fiorentina 17)

63 CAUSIO Franco (MF) 29-04-1972 (Juventus 57, Udinese 6)
63 DONADONI Roberto (MF) 08-10-1986 (Milan 59, Metro Stars NY 4)

61 ALTOBELLI Alessandro (AT) 18-06-1980 (Inter 61)

60 BAGGIO Dino (MF) 21-12-1991 (Inter 1, Juventus 19, Parma 40)
60 GATTUSO Gennaro Ivan (MF) 23-02-2000 (Milan 60)
60 RIVERA Gianni (MF) 13-05-1962 (Milan 60)

59 CALIGARIS Umberto (DF) 15-01-1922 (Casale 37, Juventus 22)
59 COSTACURTA Alessandro (DF) 13-11-1991 (Milan 59)
59 VIALLI Gianluca (AT) 16-11-1985 (Sampdoria 56, Juventus 3)

58 TOTTI Francesco (AT) 10-10-1998 (Roma 58)
58 ZENGA Walter (GK) 08-10-1986 (Inter 58)

57 INZAGHI Filippo (AT) 08-06-1997 (Atalanta 1, Juventus 31, Milan 25)
57 PANUCCI Christian (DF) 07-09-1994 (Milan 4, Real Madrid 13, Inter 4, Roma 36)

56 BAGGIO Roberto (MF) 16-11-1988 (Fiorentina 13, Juventus 31, Milan 2, Bologna 6, Inter 3, Brescia 1)

55 BENETTI Romeo (MF) 25-09-1971 (Milan 29, Juventus 22, Roma 4)

54 DE NAPOLI Fernando (MF) 11-05-1986 (Avellino 5, Napoli 49)

53 MEAZZA Giuseppe (MF) 09-02-1930 (Inter 53)

52 ROSETTA Virginio (DF) 31-08-1920 (Pro Vercelli 10, Juventus 42)

50 COLLOVATI Fulvio (DF) 24-02-1979 (Milan 33, Inter 17)

49 FERRARA Ciro (DF) 10-06-1987 (Napoli 25, Juventus 24)
49 PIRLO Andrea (MF) 07-09-2002 (Milan 49)
49 VIERI Christian (AT) 29-03-1997 (Juventus 4, Atletico Madrid 9, Lazio 4, Inter 28, Milan 4)

48 ROSSI Paolo (AT) 21-12-1977 (Vicenza 14, Perugia 5, Juventus 27, Milan 2)

47 BALONCIERI Adolfo (MF) 13-05-1920 (Alessandria 20, Torino 27)
47 COMBI Gianpiero (GK) 06-04-1924 (Juventus 47)
47 CONTI Bruno (MF) 11-10-1980 (Roma 47)
47 GIANNINI Giuseppe (MF) 06-12-1986 (Roma 47)

45 FERRI Riccardo (DF) 06-12-1986 (Inter 45)
45 VIERCHOWOD Pietro (DF) 06-01-1981 (Como 2, Sampdoria 43)

44 CASIRAGHI Pier Luigi (AT) 13-02-1991 (Juventus 10, Lazio 34)
44 FERRARI Giovanni (MF) 09-02-1930 (Alessandria 1, Juventus 26, Inter 17)
44 PERROTTA Simone (MF) 20-11-2002 (Chievo Verona 19, Roma 25)

43 DE VECCHI Renzo (DF) 26-05-1910 (Milan 12, Genoa 31)

42 BETTEGA Roberto (AT) 05-06-1975 (Juventus 42)
42 RIVA Luigi (AT) 27-06-1965 (Cagliari 42)

41 BAGNI Salvatore (MF) 06-01-1981 (Perugia 3, Inter 10, Napoli 28)
41 MATERAZZI Marco (DF) 25-04-2001 (Perugia 2, Inter 39)

40 DI LIVIO Angelo (MF) 06-09-1995 (Juventus 27, Fiorentina 13)

39 BERTI Nicola (MF) 19-10-1988 (Inter 39)
39 CAMORANESI Mauro German (MF) 12-02-2003 (Juventus 39) Oriundo: Argentina
39 PAGLIUCA Gianluca (GK) 16-06-1991 (Sampdoria 23, Inter 16)

38 BONIPERTI Giampiero (AT) 09-11-1947 (Juventus 38)
38 DOSSENA Giuseppe (MF) 19-04-1981 (Bologna 2, Torino 36)
38 FIORE Stefano (MF) 23-02-2000 (Udinese 18, Lazio 17, Valencia 3)
38 TONI Luca (AT) 18-08-2004 (Palermo 10, Fiorentina 17, Bayern Munich 11)

37 ROSATO Roberto (DF) 13-03-1965 (Torino 14, Milan 23)

36 DE AGOSTINI Luigi (DF) 28-05-1987 (Verona 3, Juventus 33)
36 DE ROSSI Daniele (MF) 04-09-2004 (Roma 36)
36 MANCINI Roberto (AT) 26-05-1984 (Sampdoria 36)
36 SALVADORE Sandro (DF) 10-12-1960 (Milan 8, Juventus 28)

35 AMBROSINI Massimo (MF) 28-04-1999 (Milan 35)
35 GROSSO Fabio (MF) 30-04-2003 (Perugia 3, Palermo 20, Inter 2, Olympique Lyon 10)
35 MONZEGLIO Eraldo (DF) 11-05-1930 (Bologna 21, Roma 14)
35 ORSI Raimondo (AT) 01-12-1929 (Juventus 35) Oriundo: Argentina
35 ZOLA Gianfranco (MF) 13-11-1991 (Napoli 3, Parma 23, Chelsea 9)

34 ALBERTOSI Enrico (GK) 15-06-1961 (Fiorentina 18, Cagliari 16)
34 DI MATTEO Roberto (MF) 16-11-1994 (Lazio 15, Chelsea 19)
34 ODDO Massimo (DF) 21-08-2002 (Lazio 25, Milan 9)
34 PIOLA Silvio (AT) 24-03-1935 (Lazio 30, Juventus 2, Novara 2)

33 DOMENGHINI Angelo (AT) 10-11-1963 (Atalanta 1, Inter 17, Cagliari 15)

32 BELLUGI Mauro (DF) 07-10-1972 (Inter 7, Bologna 24, Napoli 1)
32 CAPELLO Fabio (MF) 13-05-1972 (Juventus 27 Milan 5)

31 CONTI Leopoldo (MF) 28-03-1920 (Inter 31)
31 DI BIAGIO Luigi (MF) 28-01-1998 (Roma 12, Inter 19)
31 PERUZZI Angelo (GK) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 26, Lazio 5)

30 RAVA Pietro (DF) 03-08-1936 (Juventus 29, Alessandria 1)

29 BULGARELLI Giacomo (MF) 07-06-1962 (Bologna 29)
29 CEVENINI Luigi (MF) 31-01-1915 (Inter 22, Novese 4, Juventus 3)
29 DE SISTI Giancarlo (MF) 01-11-1967 (Fiorentina 29)
29 MAGNOZZI Mario (MF) 25-05-1924 (Livorno 26, Milan 3)
29 PITTO Alfredo (MF) 01-01-1928 (Bologna 21, Fiorentina 5, Inter 3)

28 CERVATO Sergio (DF) 08-04-1951 (Fiorentina 25, Juventus 3)
28 FERRARIS Attilio (MF) 09-05-1926 (Roma 25, Lazio 3)
28 LEVRATTO Virgilio F. (AT) 25-05-1924 (Vado 3, Verona 4, Genoa 21)
28 ORIALI Gabriele (MF) 21-12-1978 (Inter 28)
28 SIGNORI Giuseppe (AT) 31-05-1992 (Foggia 3, Lazio 25)
28 TOLDO Francesco (GK) 08-10-1995 (Fiorentina 18, Inter 10)

26 ANCELOTTI Carlo (MF) 06-01-1981 (Roma 13, Milan 13)
26 ANDREOLO Michele (MF) 17-05-1936 (Bologna 26) Oriundo: Uruguay
26 BERNARDINI Fulvio (MF) 22-03-1925 (Lazio 9, Inter 11, Roma 6)
26 BERTOLINI Luigi (MF) 01-12-1929 (Alessandria 6, Juventus 20)
26 COLAUSSI Gino (AT) 27-10-1935 (Triestina 26)

25 ANASTASI Pietro (AT) 08-06-1968 (Varese 2, Juventus 23)
25 BERTINI Mario (MF) 29-06-1966 (Fiorentina 3 Inter 22)
25 FUSER Diego (MF) 24-02-1993 (Lazio 14, Parma 11)
25 GILARDINO Alberto (AT) 04-09-2004 (Parma 6, Milan 19)
25 TOMMASI Damiano (MF) 18-11-1998 (Roma 25)
25 ZACCARELLI Renato (MF) 26-10-1975 (Torino 25)

24 ALLEMANDI Luigi (DF) 04-11-1925 (Juventus 3, Inter 13, Roma 8)
24 OLIVIERI Aldo (GK) 15-11-1936 (Lucchese 12, Torino 12)
24 SERENA Aldo (AT) 08-12-1984 (Torino 2, Juventus 6, Inter 16)

23 BARZAGLI Andrea (DF) 17-11-2004 (Palermo 23)
23 BENARRIVO Antonio (DF) 22-09-1993 (Parma 23)
23 CORSO Mario (MF) 24-05-1961 (Inter 23)
23 COSTANTINO Raffaele (MF) 01-12-1929 (Bari 6, Roma 17)
23 FONI Alfredo (DF) 03-08-1936 (Juventus 23)
23 IAQUINTA Vincenzo (AT) 30-03-2005 (Udinese 19, Juventus 4)
23 JANNI Antonio (MF) 23-11-1924 (Torino 23)

22 BONINSEGNA Roberto (AT) 18-11-1967 (Cagliari 1, Inter 21)
22 BORDON Ivano (GK) 25-01-1978 (Inter 14, Sampdoria 8 )
22 DELVECCHIO Marco (AT) 16-12-1998 (Roma 22)
22 LOCATELLI Ugo (MF) 03-08-1936 (Inter 22)
22 PESSOTTO Gianluca (DF) 09-10-1996 (Juventus 22)
22 RAVANELLI Fabrizio (AT) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 11, Middlesbrough 6, Olympique Marseille 5)

21 BARBIERI Ottavio (MF) 05-05-1921 (Genoa 21)
21 GUARNERI Aristide (DF) 12-05-1963 (Inter 18, Bologna 3)
21 MORA Bruno (MF) 29-11-1959 (Sampdoria 2, Juventus 9, Milan 10)
21 PANDOLFINI Egisto (MF) 02-07-1950 (Fiorentina 7, Roma 12, Inter 2)
21 SCHIAVIO Angelo (AT) 04-11-1925 (Bologna 21)

20 CONTE Antonio (MF) 27-05-1994 (Juventus 20)
20 DI NATALE Antonio (AT) 20-11-2002 (Empoli 4, Udinese 16)
20 ERANIO Stefano (MF) 22-12-1990 (Genoa 8, Milan 12)
20 MAGNINI Ardico (DF) 26-04-1953 (Fiorentina 20)
20 MARINI Giampiero (MF) 01-11-1980 (Inter 20)
20 MONTELLA Vincenzo (AT) 05-06-1999 (Sampdoria 1, Roma 19)
20 SEGATO Armando (MF) 13-11-1953 (Fiorentina 20)

[Ethuang]

CONGRATZ BRO JEEMACK atas DIBUKANYA THREAD INI !!
=D>=D>=D>

wah torsedor Italy bs ngumpul d sini nih :D
sering d sambangin y thread nya ;)

FORZA ITALY !!

[itach1ez]

CONGRATZ ya buat bro jeemack atas dibukanya thread Azzuri.. =D>

Sebagai salah satu penggemar Azurri saya turut bergembira atas dibukanya thread ini.. :) Sering2 disambangin ya.. ;)

[jeemack]

2006

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The Italy team in the Final vs France

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Semi Final vs Germany

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Quarter Final vs Ukraine

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Round of 16th vs Australia

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Fabio Cannavaro (ITA) with the trophy



1982



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Team Italy in the Final 1982 vs Germany

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Antonio Cabrini joins the history books as the first man to miss a penalty in a World Cup final. The German players are: Rummenigge (11), Briegel (2) and Dremmler (6).

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After 56 minutes, the Italy - West Germany final came alive. Paolo Rossi (center) heads towards goal watched by his teammate Antonio Cabrini. Goalkeeper Schumacher can do nothing about it. Italy are one up!

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Italy's Paolo Rossi celebrates after scoring the opening goal in the World Cup Final.

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Marco Tardelli scores the second goal for Italy.

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Italian captain Dino Zoff holds aloft the World Cup trophy after receiving from King Juan Carlos of Spain.


1938

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Italy's World Cup winners of 1938 celebrating. Back row from left (players only): Biavati, Piola, Ferrari and Colaussi. Front row from left: Locatelli, Meazza, Foni, Olivieri, Rava and Serantoni. Andreolo is lying in the foreground and coach Vittorio Pozzo is holding aloft the trophy.

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Silvio Piola of Italy with an effort saved by Hungarian goalkeeper Szabo in the final.

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Hungary's Gyorgy Sarosi (C) challenges for a header against an Italian defender.

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Italy captain Giuseppe Meazza (L) receives the Jules Rimet trophy from French Preisdent Albert Lebrun after his side's defeat of Hungary in the Final.


1934


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Awards for the three best teams represented by their captains. In the middle Combi of winning team Italy. Number three from left is Planicka representing the runners-up Czechoslovakia. The third placed team, Germany, is represented by Szepan (white shirt to the right).

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Italy's World Cup winning team of 1934: (Back row from left to right ) Combi, Monti, Ferraris IV, Allemandi, Guaita and Ferrari. Front row from left: Schiavio, Meazza, Monzeglio, Bertolini and Orsi.

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Italy coach Vittorio Pozzo watches the action unfold

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The victorious Italian team carry their coach Vittorio Pozzo as they celebrate an historic victory.

[Ethuang]

U21 tms kan bro ;)
ini ada berita nya:


Under-21: We Should Have Picked Rossi Before Palladino - Zola


Gianfranco Zola admitted that he and Casiraghi might have erred in playing Raffaele Palladino ahead of Guiseppe Rossi.

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Rossi was inspirational against the Czechs last night, scoring and winning the man-of-the-match award, prompting many to ask what he had been doing on the bench while the Azzurrini were struggling earlier in the tournament.
He came on in the second half in the earlier games, despite having been the in form striker in Italy over the last few months, causing much surprise back home.
Zola admits that the technical team might have gone the wrong way.
"Giuseppe is an important player, but at the start so was Palladino, so we thought it was right to keep faith with Raffaele," he said.
"Obviously with hindsight you can say many things, but at the time we thought that was the right thing to do."
He admitted that if the team had taken their chances in the first game against Serbia, it could well have been different.
"Unfortunately we are paying the price for mistakes above all in the first game, which looking carefully we did not deserve to lose," he said.
"We didn’t do enough against Serbia in terms of finishing.
"These things can happen and the lads can be proud they gave their all, with more or less everyone playing their part."

[Ethuang]

Under 21: We Didn't Deserve To Be Eliminated - Casiraghi


The Italian Under 21 national team coach blames 15 minutes of bad football for the Azzurrini's early exit from this competition.

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Pierluigi Casiraghi was full of regrets on Sunday night as his Italy side was eliminated from the European Championships despite winning convincingly the last match of the group against the Czech Republic.

"It's a pity," commented the former Lazio and Chelsea striker, "Because we played three good games.

"In 270 minutes we only played bad for a quarter of an hour: the first five minutes against Serbia and the first 10 minutes against England.

"I think that the elimination was a price too high to pay. Being eliminated is not a nice feeling at all, the team proved to have excellent elements of quality. I wish them a great future."

Italy will now have to face Portugal in a playoff match, where the winner will be able to participate in next years Olympics.

"Now we must think about the playoff against Portugal for the Olympics qualification.

"Let's try to recharge our batteries, especially from the physical point of view. For us it will be like a final."

[jeemack]

Italy Is Still At The Top Of The Fifa Standings


Rome 13/06/2007

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Italy team in the last match vs Lithuania


Italy is still at the top of the Fifa standings for the month of June, confirming its position thanks also to the two wins against the Far Oer Islands and Lithuania.
France, however, gets past Brazil and is in second place, after the two wins against Ukraine and Georgia in the 2008 European Championships qualifications.
Fourth place for Germany, its best standing in the last four years. Argentina goes down two positions and is now fifth.
Here are the up-dated top ten teams:

1 Italy 1.653 point
2 France 1.585
3 Brazil 1.484
4 Germany 1.467
5 Argentina 1.373
6 Portugal 1.323
7 Spain 1.273
8 England 1.240
9 The Netherlands 1.220
10 Czech Republic 1.096

[jilat_meki]

Iya nih, gw ucapin selamat ya to Bro Jeemack atas dibukanya thread ini... =D> =D> =D>
Infonya lumayan lengkap lagi... ;) Mudah2an gw bisa membantu... ;)
Sekali lagi selamat... :)

=D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D> =D>

[jilat_meki]

Chiellini left to rue Italy lapses


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Giorgio Chiellini in action against England


Friday 15 June 2007

by Alfredo Rodríguez & Massimo Gonnellafrom Arnhem

Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini blamed "15 minutes of complete madness" for his side's 2-2 draw against England in a match he feels they "dominated".

Numerous chances
The Juventus left-back scored Italy's opener on 35 minutes, deflecting home a corner from close range - "like pinball" - after Pierluigi Casiraghi's team had conceded two strikes in three minutes to England's David Nugent and Leroy Lita. "If you see the chances and look at the statistics, aside from those 15 minutes of complete madness, we clearly dominated," he said. "We had over 30 shots on goal. We created so much in attack."

Awful beginning
Of the Azzurrini's awful beginning at the Gelredome, the 22-year-old added: "We had hoped to start the game better. We had ten or 15 minutes of total amnesia in which none of us were on the field. After that initial blackout, in which we jeapordised the result of the game, we hit back. After England's second goal we were a completely different side - the exact opposite of the one on the pitch until then." And once they had the bit between their teeth, Chiellini believes his team-mates were unstoppable. "Yesterday was the best we have played since Pierluigi Casiraghi took charge nine months ago." They could easily have won, although the defender insists "we can't blame our forwards, they created so many chances".

'Not over yet'
Italy must now beat the Czech Republic in their third fixture on Sunday and hope Group B winners Serbia deny England victory in order to reach the semi-finals. "Unfortunately we didn't manage to find a winning goal and now we're hoping that Serbia draw against England in the last game," said Chiellini. "We have to win our last one and then see what happens in the other match. It is not over yet, and you can be sure that we'll give everything we have until the very end."

[jilat_meki]

Match report

Victory in vain as Italy bow out

Sunday 17 June 2007
by Andrew Haslam from Gelredome


Italy failed to progress beyond the UEFA European Under-21 Championship group stage for the second season in succession despite ending Group B with a solid win against the Czech Republic in Arnhem.

Slow start
The Azurrini had won five of the last eight competitions but paid the price for taking just one point from their first two matches. That left Pierluigi Casiraghi's side relying on England failing to beat Serbia and, although Alberto Aquilani's fine fourth-minute free-kick met with wild celebrations, the mood had become more muted by the time Giorgio Chiellini restored Italy's lead after Michal Papadopulos had levelled in the 14th minute as news filtered through that England were winning. Giuseppe Rossi added a third in first-half added time but England's 2-0 victory in Nijmegen ensured Italy would finish in third place, although they do have the consolation of a play-off against Portugal on Thursday with the winner qualifying for the 2008 Olympic Games.

Early excitement
As the players prepared to kick off strains of "We will rock you" blasted round the ground and Italy took the anthem to heart, leaving their opponents shaken within the first four minutes as Aquilani's pinpoint free-kick curled over the wall and past Zdeněk Zlámal's despairing dive. Aquilani again and Marco Andreolli almost increased the lead, both from set-pieces, but within seconds of the latter opportunity the match was all square. Czech Republic coach Ladislav Škorpil had made five changes and one of the new faces, František Rajtoral, was the architect of the equaliser, evading two defenders to send in a low left-wing cross that Papadopulos prodded in ahead of Andreolli's challenge.

Set-piece threat
With both sides needing a win to keep alive realistic hopes of progress chances continued to come at both ends, Alessandro Rosina's through-pass setting Giampaolo Pazzini clear but Zlámal blocked with his right leg. The goalkeeper was beaten again a minute before the half-hour, however, Chiellini holding off three defenders to head in Rosina's deep right-wing free-kick. Rossi then extended the advantage with the final touch of the first period, rounding off a swift counterattack involving Rosina and Pazzini by skipping away from Roman Hubník to drill a low shot beyond Zlámal.

Formation change
Casiraghi had switched from his usual 4-1-4-1 formation to the 4-3-3 approach his side had employed in fighting back from two goals down against England on Thursday, and though the change had paid dividends in the first period the Czech Republic were the first to threaten after the restart, Jiří Kladrubský forcing Emiliano Viviano to push his shot over before Papadopulos glanced a header wide. The more obvious opportunities continued to come at the other end, however, Aquilani's pass putting substitute Graziano Pellè clean through but again Zlámal was sharply off his line to thwart the striker. Italy had already done enough, however, although the victory was greeted by little celebration.

[jilat_meki]

Rossi relishing Olympic opportunity


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/5a9/saf4676b3e2475f9.jpg
Giuseppe Rossi

Monday 18 June 2007
by Alfredo Rodríguezfrom Arnhem


Despite Italy's elimination from the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, Giuseppe Rossi considers the opportunity to qualify for the Olympic Games as a "once in a lifetime" chance.

'A bit unlucky'
Although the Azzurrini managed a 3-1 win against the Czech Republic in their last Group B match, with Alberto Aquilani, Giorgio Chiellini and Rossi himself getting the goals, the Carlsberg Man of the Match believes his side are "just a bit unlucky" not to have earned more than a play-off against Portugal in Nijmegen on Thursday having finished third in the standings behind Serbia and England. Despite his obvious disappointment at missing out on the semi-finals, however, the Manchester United FC forward recognises a significant prize is still on offer, telling uefa.com: "The Olympics is a great tournament. It's a once in a lifetime chance."

Fierce shot
Rossi, who scored nine goals in 17 Serie A games this season while on loan at Parma FC, finally opened his account for the Azzurrini in his ninth U21 international appearance, skipping away from Czech defender Roman Hubník before unleashing a fierce low left-footed shot that went in off the far post. "Today was a great performance by everybody - we didn't deserve to go out," added Rossi, who echoed his coach Pierluigi Casiraghi in pointing to short but decisive passages of play against Serbia and England that ultimately undid Italy's challenge. "In 270 minutes of football, we have played badly for ten minutes. When you make a mistake you get punished and at this level you can't make too many mistakes. That's how football is."

'Nice feeling'
Rossi had largely been held in reserve by his coach in Italy's first two games, making a 16-minute cameo in the 1-0 opening loss to Serbia before coming on as a half-time substitute against England three days later. However, in spite of an impressive display over 90 minutes at the Gelredome, his personal satisfaction is outweighed by collective disappointment. He said: "Of course it's a nice feeling but I would have preferred to go through instead of winning the Man of the Match award. But we will benefit from these three free days by having a rest and hopefully we'll go into the Portugal game fresh and trying to win."

England through
The play-off game has been prompted by England's progress to the semi-finals. England are not permitted to play in the Olympics so the fourth and final European place at the tournament is to be decided by a play-off between the two sides who finished third in their respective sections.

[jeemack]

Totti hails comeback from injury

(Reuters) Monday 18 June 2007


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/c55/saf46776c764bcfa.jpg


AS Roma striker Francesco Totti hailed his own remarkable comeback from injury after winning the Golden Boot award for finishing the season as Europe's top striker.

The 30-year-old scored 26 goals in Serie A this season despite playing the whole of this season with a metal pin in his ankle - the result of an injury that threatened to keep him out of Italy's FIFA World Cup-winning campaign in Germany last year.

He took the Golden Boot after the only player capable of beating him, Real Madrid's Ruud van Nistelrooy, limped off with a hamstring injury without scoring during his team's 3-1 win over Real Mallorca on Sunday.

"A year ago everyone was writing me off, saying that I was finished and only in the national team on reputation, but the criticism brought me luck because now I am a World Cup winner, top goalscorer and I have won the Coppa Italia and the Golden Boot," Totti was quoted as saying on the UEFA website (www.uefa.com (http://www.uefa.com)) on Monday.

"What's more, I've won the Golden Boot on 17 June, exactly six years after winning the scudetto (Serie A title) with Roma. It was meant to be."

The Golden Boot is decided on a points system, which is weighted according to the relative strength of each of Europe's leagues.

Totti's 26 goals in the Italian top flight gave him 52 points, two points ahead of Van Nistelrooy, who scored 25 times for Real. Brazilian striker Afonso Alves was third after scoring 34 goals for Dutch club Heerenveen.

"I feel sorry for Van Nistelrooy. I can imagine how bitter he must have felt, but he is still a great player and deserves full respect for fighting until the end," added Totti, who became the second Italian to win the award in successive seasons after Fiorentina striker Luca Toni last year.

[Ethuang]

Casiraghi Stresses Importance Of Portugal Match


Italian Under 21 coach Pierluigi Casiraghi talked about the importance of qualifying for the Olympics.

http://www.goal.com/images/20302.jpg

Pierluigi Casiraghi is well aware that failing to beat Portugal in the play-off for participation to the Olympic Games could see him fired as Italian Under-21 Coach.
Italy have a chance to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympics on Thursday evening, against fellow third-place finishers Portugal, but many of the current group of players will not be available by the time the tournament starts as they will be too old to participate.
"I expect us to play as well as we did against the Czech Republic", Casiraghi said after their 3-1 win. "I have faith everyone will give their best in this game, whether they will participate with the Olympics or not. They are all professionals and will not be in a relaxed state of mind, no matter what the situation."
After failing to qualify from the group stages of the European Under-21 Championship, missing out on qualification to the Olympics would be seen as a disaster and Casiraghi's job is therefore on the line.
"It's inevitable to feel pressure in a competition like this," he continued, "Portugal are a dangerous side and different compared to the ones we faced in the group phase. They have more technical abilities and play in a style similar to ours."
Although this play-off is not part of the European Championship, it will be a crucial turning point for the Azzurrini.
“It is like a final for us and that´s how we will play it. There are no favorites, in any case statistics and figures go out the window once you start playing”, the coach concluded.

[jeemack]

Rosina ready for Olympic decider

Thursday 21 June 2007

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Alessandro Rosina feels Italy will not lack motivation


Alessandro Rosina is looking forward to Italy's Olympic play-off against Portugal in Nijmegen tonight, a fixture he deems worthy of "the final stages".

Olympic fillip
Both sides finished third in their respective sections to miss out on the semi-finals, but England's qualification handed both teams an Olympic lifeline. With the English barred from sending a side to the finals in Beijing, Italy and Portugal will now do battle for the fourth and final European slot at the Olympic football tournament in the penultimate game of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Slight disappointment
Playmaker Rosina is pleased the Azzurrini will have the chance to leave the Netherlands on a high, and feels the fixture was worthy of at least a semi-final. "These are two teams that are usually battling to get into the final stages of such tournaments and that have played for the title on several occasions," he said. "It's a pity we are only facing each other for a place at the Olympics, but our results have made it like this."

Portuguese strengths
A key player for Torino FC this year, the 23-year-old Rosina feels that José Couceiro's Portugal may be similar to the Czech Republic side who Italy beat 3-1 in their final Group B game. "Portuguese sides traditionally know how to keep the ball, have very skilful, technical players, especially in the attacking positions, just like the Czech Republic," he said.

'Maximum concentration'
Some feared that, having failed to reach the semi-finals, Italy would lack motivation for this fixture, but Rosina is absolutely convinced the five-time winners are taking the match very seriously indeed. "In all of us, there is a will to be 100 per cent competitive on the pitch and totally motivated," he said. "We will go into this game with the maximum concentration knowing that it could allow us to reach a very important objective."

[jeemack]

Match preview

Rivals keen to take up Olympic offer

Thursday 21 June 2007

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Italy celebrate winning the bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens


They may have missed out on their primary goal but there will be no shortage of incentive for Portugal and Italy as they meet at the Goffert Stadion in Nijmegen with a place in next year's Olympic Games at stake.

Sluggish starts
Both sides failed to reach the semi-finals having finished third in their groups, with neither able to recover from taking only one point from their first two fixtures. Although Portugal overwhelmed Israel 4-0 in their concluding Group A tie and Italy defeated the Czech Republic 3-1, their four-point totals kept them out of the top two. Normally that would have spelt the end but a reprieve was provided by England's progress to the last four; as Stuart Pearce's team will not compete in Beijing, Portugal and Italy have another chance to keep Olympic ambitions alive.

'Kind of final'
It is an opportunity both are determined to grasp, although history is on Italy's side. The most successful Olympic football team having taken part in 14 tournaments, the Azzurrini were bronze medallists in Athens three years ago and have also won seven of their eleven competitive U21 matches against Portugal. Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi treats such statistics with disdain, however, saying: "I don't care about the past. This is a special game, a kind of final. It is not followed by another match, it is not a group game and like all finals it will be decisive on its own, so it is useless to look at statistics. It will depend entirely on what happens during the game.

'Special players'
"Portugal are a completely different team to those we have played so far; they have a lot of quality and are technically and physically very strong," continued Casiraghi, who is likely to have captain Giorgio Chiellini and Luca Cigarini available after both shook off knocks. "They have skilful players like [João] Moutinho and Nani and strong midfielders in [Miguel] Veloso and [Manuel] Fernandes so we're quite well matched. We'll study them thoroughly as always but we have our style and some special players. We have to play independently from our opponents, because our players will always keep their own qualities."

Italian approach
Portugal coach José Couceiro has also studied the opposition in depth and believes his charges can use what has long been considered a traditionally Italian approach against its inventors. "Tactical preparation has improved on our part and many in Portugal may call it a lack of ambition," he said. "Well, that's what Italians have always done, they have studied the game since they were young. They know that there are moments when you don't take risks and just control the game. It will be a very even contest."

'New objective'
Portugal have played in only three Olympics, although two of those participations came in 1996 and 2004, and they finished fourth in the former competition - their best performance to date. "I've protected the players by saying publicly that we wanted to reach the semi-finals and the Olympics," added Couceiro, who is set to risk Nani and Ricardo Vaz Té despite niggling injuries. "But they knew that we wanted much more. Unfortunately we couldn't reach that goal and now we have this new objective, qualifying for Beijing. We will do our best to get there."

[jeemack]

Italy choose Milan for France visit

Thursday 21 June 2007

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The Giuseppe Meazza in Milan


The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced today that the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against France on 8 September will be staged at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan.

France on top
"The game against France will be played at the San Siro," said FIGC president Giancarlo Abete after a meeting in Rome. Italy are second in Group B with 16 points, two behind a France team who defeated the Azzurri 3-1 last September in the first repeat of the 2006 FIFA World Cup final. Italy will travel to Ukraine four days later, when Les Bleus entertain third-placed Scotland.

[jeemack]

Ten-man Italy claim Olympic prize

Thursday 21 June 2007

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Raffaele Palladino of Italy leads the celebrations after Italy defeat Portugal on penalties


Emiliano Viviano was the hero as ten-man Italy edged out Portugal in a penalty shout-out in Nijmegen to end their UEFA European Under-21 Championship campaign on a high note by claiming a place in the 2008 Olympic Games.


Shoot-out drama
Both sides came into this game having won their final group games last weekend but finished third in their respective sections. Neither was able to reproduce the attacking flair they had shown in their previous matches, however, with clear chances at a premium in a tense encounter. Italy lost Giuseppe Rossi to a second bookable offence late in the second period of normal time but held on to take the game to spot-kicks where Viviano saved from Manuel Fernandes. When Antunes placed Portugal's fifth penalty wide of the post Italy – for whom Graziano Pelle, with a nerveless chip, Riccardo Montolivo, Domenico Criscito and Raffaele Palladino all converted – could celebrate their Olympic berth.

Destination Beijing
The song "Destination Unknown" played a prominent part in the pre-match build-up, but these two sides knew their preferred next stop precisely: Beijing in 14 months. With such a prize on offer it was perhaps little surprise that the match began cautiously although Italy might have taken an eleventh-minute lead, Rossi flicking just over after Alessandro Rosina had found Marco Motta for the right-back to send in a low cross. Ricardo Vaz Té and Nani then missed the target for Portugal who, after spending much of the early exchanges on the back foot, largely controlled the second half of the opening period.

Rossi frustrated
That territorial superiority nearly became a tangible advantage as Silvestre Varela cut inside from the right and unleashed a curling left-foot effort that slipped just past the far post. Seconds later Alberto Aquilani did likewise at the other end, although without the same air of menace, but Italy did come close to the opening goal again four minutes before the interval. Antonio Nocerino's pass gave Rossi the opportunity to sprint past three defenders but the forward could not beat goalkeeper Paulo Ribeiro, who blocked well before Antunes completed the clearance.

Rossi off
Nani was the first to threaten after the restart, swerving a shot just past Viviano's left-hand post, before the Azzurrini responded with a sweeping move from left to right involving Rossi, Aquilani and Rosina, the latter playing in Montolivo for a low angled drive Paulo Ribeiro blocked with his legs. Italy suffered a major setback 16 minutes from time as Rossi was dismissed after collecting a second yellow card for dissent though Portugal were unable to press home the numerical advantage, substitute Pelle twice and Giorgio Chiellini going close for Italy.

Portugal pressure
Nani opened the first period of extra time with another low shot past the post after a slick one-touch passing move before Miguel Veloso and Manuel Fernandes also sent efforts wide as Portugal pressed Italy back. João Moreira and João Moutinho were unable to take presentable opportunities early in the second additional half, before substitute Yannick Djaló blazed over with the goal at his mercy. Those misses proved costly as the Azzurrini, the most consistent side in Olympic history having participated in 14 Games, held their nerve in the shoot-out to continue their love affair with the event.

[jeemack]

Match review

Casiraghi's mission accomplished

Thursday 21 June 2007

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Italy coach Pierluigi Casiraghi during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship win against Portugal


Italy coach Pierluigi Casiraghi was celebrating a job well done after his side secured the last European place at the 2008 Olympic Games with a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory against Portugal in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Nijmegen. Casiraghi's side survived the loss of Giuseppe Rossi, who collected his second booking of the game in the 74th minute, to take the play-off to penalties where they successfully converted all four of their kicks. Portugal coach José Couceiro meanwhile, was left lamenting the injustice of football after Manuel Fernandes and Antunes failed to score in the shoot-out, but feels his side have a bright future.

Pierluigi Casiraghi, Italy coach
We played really well tonight, the players produced a very good performance. It wasn't easy, a great team like Portugal made it very difficult for us but we kept going and got our reward in the end. We expected a tight game and that's what we got, then we went down to ten men so it became even more difficult for us but the boys played very well indeed. Even if Portugal had the advantage of the extra man, we gave everything tonight and we made it in the end. We achieved our final objective.

José Couceiro, Portugal coach
Football isn't fair. We were the better team tonight, but missed a lot of crucial chances. We moved the ball well and played well in midfield but we were short up front without the suspended Hugo Almeida. It was not fair, we've done very well again tonight but we didn't get what we deserved. I expected us to control the game and we knew we had to take risks. Italy's main threat came from our mistakes in midfield. The only problem was that we didn't score; that's obviously why we lost. We're frustrated, we always expected more, but I'm very proud of what the players have achieved. This team is full of young players – eleven of them will still be eligible for the next European Championship. This is not the end, this is the start of something and the hard work will continue.

[jeemack]

Nocerino raises the flame for Azzurrini

Thursday 21 June 2007

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João Moutinho of Portugal races away from Italy's Antonio Nocerino


The conference centre that backs on to the Papendal training ground in Arnhem which Italy have used as their base at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship today hosted the 'Beijing Olympic Experience', and from the early stages of the Olympic Games play-off in Nijmegen there was a sense of inevitability around the Azzurrini's victory. Portugal gave as good as they got but despite playing against ten men for over 40 minutes they could find no way through and, with Graziano Pelle drawing applause from the attendant Louis van Gaal with a cheeky chip in the penalty shoot-out that followed, Italy prevailed.

Nocerino industry
There are many myths about how the ancient Olympic Games were created, the most popular being that Heracles built the Olympic stadium in honour of his father Zeus. Heracles, renowned for his ingenuity, strength and courage, would have been pleased with both teams' early endeavour, typified by the performance of Antonio Nocerino shielding the Italy back line. A powerful, imposing figure, the Piacenza FC midfielder bears little physical resemblance to the most famous exponent of his role, Claude Makelele, but the speed with which his shirt became drenched in sweat bore testament to great industry.

Portugal riposte
In Brazil they call the Makelele position the volante (rudder), but while Nocerino was steering the Azzurrini, providing midfield impetus, there was little forward thrust, little ingenuity. That was mainly coming from Portugal, and led by Nani and Manuel Fernandes, José Couceiro's team always looked capable of conjuring something. First Nani whipped in a dangerous ball to the near post before Fernandes found the head of Ricardo Vaz Té with a pinpoint cross but the finishing touch was lacking. The pair were forcing the play, with the SL Benfica youngster catching the eye when he tracked back to dispossess Alessandro Rosina though he, in turn, was robbed by the omnipotent Nocerino.

Rossi dismissal
A trio of Italy players spent much of the pre-match warm-up skilfully juggling the ball between them, but Nocerino had not been one of them. The 22-year-old was forced to wait almost 100 appearances before recording his first league goal and is hardly renowned for his attacking prowess, though he almost fashioned the opener moments before half-time when his ball sent Giuseppe Rossi through, only for Paulo Ribeiro to deny the striker. The game ebbed and flowed before the Manchester United FC forward was thrust back into the limelight 16 minutes from time, handed a second yellow card for dissent which placed the Azzurrini's aspirations of a 15th Olympic campaign in the balance.

Pelle penalty
The dismissal should have been the cue for Nocerino to become even more involved but the ball was bypassing midfield and it fell to Giorgio Chiellini to take centre stage, anticipating the play, dominating aerial battles and putting his body on the line. He ended the first period of extra time sporting a huge bandage after being caught by the boot of Nani. Italy were indebted to good fortune when João Moutinho's goal-bound header inadvertently struck Domenico Criscito before Yannick Djaló missed the chance of the game, firing over with the goal gaping. Antunes missed the decisive penalty in the resultant shoot-out as Italy secured a 4-3 win, begun by the outrageous effort by Pelle. Finally, ingenuity to match the strength and courage.

[abudiarto]

=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>CONGRATS ATAS DIBUKANYA THREAD INI....GRAZIE..GRAZIE..FORZA AZZURI..FORZA AZZURINNI..FORZA JUVENTUS..AND....GOOD LUCK TO DONADONI=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>=D>>:D<>:D<^:)^^:)^^:)^^:)^^:)^:)>-

[jeemack]

Beijing beckons for Viviano

Friday 22 June 2007

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Emiliano Viviano saves Manuel Fernades's penalty


After leading Italy to a penalty shoot-out success against Portugal, goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano's only regret was that the game "could and should have been the final".

Important save
Replacing the injured Gianluca Curci during a 0-0 draw at the De Goffert Stadium, the goalkeeper fended off Manuel Fernandes' effort from the spot before Antunes put his kick wide to give Italy a 4-3 win on penalties. The victory sends Italy to next summer's Olympics, which Viviano called "one of the most important competitions of the World".

Dramatic turn
It was a dramatic turn of events for Italy and Brescia Calcio goalkeeper Viviano who traveled to the UEFA European Under-21 Championship with little hope of a first-team place. Given the Carlsberg Man of the Match award, he said: "I am very happy because I came here as a substitute. Unfortunately, our first-choice goalkeeper got injured so the coach decided to make me play. To be the most decisive player on the field in such an important game fills me with pride."

Minimum target
Victory in the fifth and sixth placed play-off saw Pierluigi Casiraghi's side reach one of their targets for the finals. "For us the minimum was to earn the Italian national team a place in the Olympic Games, and in the end Italy won't miss out." However, he did not deny his side had failed in their main aim, saying: "We came here to win the European Championship, because we have a top class team."

Worthy adversaries
Having made 40 league appearances this season, the 21-year-old felt Thursday night's game "could and should have been the final. It was very though as we had to face Portugal who are such strong opponents." Things became even more complicated with Giuseppe Rossi's dismissal for a second booking 16 minutes before the end of normal time, but Casiraghi's boys proved to be "a group of exceptional lads with the necessary attributes to claim the final victory". Viviano will now be hoping to get a chance to impress in Beijing next summer. "I hope to be in the team for that tournament but that decision belongs to the coach," he said.

[Ethuang]

Sabtu, 23 Juni 2007,
Azzurrini Susul ke Olimpiade Beijing


Timnas Italia U-21 berhasil memastikan tiket Olimpiade 2008. Itu setelah Azzurrini berhasil menang adu penalti atas Portugal 4-3 pada babak playoff Piala Eropa U-21 di Belanda dini hari kemarin WIB. Drama adu penalti harus dilakukan karena kedua tim bermain imbang tanpa gol hingga babak ekstra.

Sekadar catatan, sesuai aturan, seluruh semifinalis Piala Eropa U-21 berhak tampil di Olimpiade 2008 di Beijing. Mereka adalah Serbia, Belanda, dan Italia. Inggris sebenarnya lolos ke babak empat besar. Sayang, The Three Lions tidak terhitung sebagai peserta Olimpiade.

Sebab, IOC (Komisi Olimpiade Internasional) hanya mengakui Britania Raya sebagai anggotanya, dan bukan Inggris. Sedangkan Britania Raya sudah mencakup Inggris, Wales, Skotlandia, dan Irlandia. Jatah Inggris harus dan kemudian diperebutkan dua tim penghuni posisi tiga di penyisihan grup. Karena itu, tiket keempat ke Beijing jatah dari Eropa masih lowong.

Kesempatan tampil dalam partai playoff tidak disia-siakan oleh skuad Italia. Mereka tampil konsisten meski bermain dengan 10 orang sejak menit ke-74. Giuseppe Rossi harus keluar karena mendapat dua kartu kuning.

"Pemain tampil luar biasa. Mereka bisa mengatasi tekanan meski kalah dalam jumlah pemain hingga babak extratime. Mental seperti ini yang dibutuhkan tim saat tampil di Olimpiade nanti," kata allenatore Italia, Pierluigi Casiraghi sebagaimana dilansir situs resmi UEFA.

Kiper Italia, Emiliano Viviano, menjadi pahlawan dalam adu penalti. Dia berhasil menepis tembakan pemain Portugal, Manuel Fernandes. Pemilik gelar Piala Eropa U-21 lima kali itu memastikan tiket ke Beijing setelah tembakan penalti Antunes melebar ke sisi kanan gawang. Azzurrini akhirnya unggul 4-3. Empat algojo Pelle Montolivo, Criscito, dan Palladino semua sukses menjadi eksekutor.

[pinjem_bud]

PAOLO ROSSI http://usera.imagecave.com/pinjem_bud/emoticon/COOL.GIF

http://usera.imagecave.com/pinjem_bud/Foto_Album/paolo_rossi1.jpg


Paolo Rossi, (lahir di Santa Lucia, Italia pada 23 September 1956) merupakan mantan pemain sepak bola berkebangsaan Italia. Dia pernah bermain untuk tim Como Calcio, Juventus, Vicenza Calcio, Perugia Calcio, AC Milan, dan Hellas Verona. Di timnas Italia, dia membawa tim itu meraih gelar juara Piala Dunia FIFA 1982.

http://usera.imagecave.com/pinjem_bud/Foto_Album/1982_rossi_rechts.jpg


Rossi tampil mengesankan di Piala Dunia 1978 dengan mencetak tiga gol. Tapi, Piala Dunia 1982 adalah gelanggangnya. Dia mencetak tiga gol saat mengalahkan Brasil 3-2 pada putaran kedua yang dianggap sebagai pertandingan terbaik 1982. Padahal, ketika itu Brasil hanya butuh hasil imbang.

Sepak terjang Rossi tak berhenti di situ. Dia mencetak dua gol saat Italia mengalahkan Polandia di semifinal. Saat Italia menang 3-1 atas Jerbar di final, Rossi pun mencetak gol.

Itulah puncak perjalanan pemain yang dibesarkan Juventus itu. Juventus yang melepasnya ke Vicenza, terpaksa menelan ludah. Mereka menarik kembali Rossi yang saat itu membela Perugia.

http://usera.imagecave.com/pinjem_bud/Foto_Album/italia82h.jpg

http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/gif/flagitap.gifWorld Cup Spain 1982 (FIFA World Cup),: Italy World Champion


Coach: Enzo Bearzot

Goalkeepers:
Dino Zoff (Juventus) (C), Ivano Bordon (Inter), Giovanni Galli (Fiorentina)

Defenders:
Franco Baresi (Milan), Giuseppe Bergomi (Inter), Antonio Cabrini (Juventus), Fulvio Collovati (Milan), Claudio Gentile (Juventus), Gaetano Scirea (Juventus), Pietro Vierchowod (Fiorentina)

Midfielders:
Giancarlo Antognoni (Fiorentina), Giuseppe Dossena (Torino), Giampiero Marini (Inter), Gabriele Oriali (Inter), Marco Tardelli (Juventus), Bruno Conti (Roma)

Forwards:
Alessandro Altobelli (Inter), Franco Causio (Udinese), Francesco Graziani (Fiorentina), Daniele Massaro (Fiorentina), Paolo Rossi (Juventus), Franco Selvaggi (Cagliari)

[gemini]

Coaches

During the earliest days of Italian nation football, it was common for a Technical Commission to be appointed. The Commission took the role that a standard coach would currently play. Since 1967, the national team has been controlled only by coaches.
For this reason, the coach of the Italian national team is still called Technical Commissioner (Commissario tecnico o CT).

Technical Commission (1910–1912)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1912)
Technical Commission (1912–1924)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1924)
Technical Commission (1924–1925)
Augusto Rangone (1925–1928)
Carlo Carcano (1928–1929)
Vittorio Pozzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vittorio_Pozzo) (1929–1948) — World Champions 1934, World Champions 1938
Ferruccio Novo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferruccio_Novo) (1949–1950) — as Technical Commission Chairman
Technical Commission (1951)
Carlino Beretta (1952–1953)
Technical Commission (1953–1959)
Giuseppe Viani (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Giuseppe_Viani&action=edit) (1960)
Giovanni Ferrari (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Ferrari) (1960–1961)
Technical Commission (1962)
Edmondo Fabbri (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmondo_Fabbri) (1962–1966)
Technical Commission (1966–1967)
Ferruccio Valcareggi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferruccio_Valcareggi) (1967–1974) — European Champions 1968, Runners-Up World Cup 1970
Fulvio Bernardini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulvio_Bernardini) (1974–1975)
Enzo Bearzot (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enzo_Bearzot) (1975–1986) — World Champions 1982
Azeglio Vicini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azeglio_Vicini) (1986–1991) — 3rd Place World Cup 1990
Arrigo Sacchi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrigo_Sacchi) (1991–1996) — Runners-Up World Cup 1994
Cesare Maldini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cesare_Maldini) (1997–1998)
Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) (1998–2000) — Runners-Up European Championships 2000
Giovanni Trapattoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Trapattoni) (2000–2004)
Marcello Lippi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcello_Lippi) (2004–2006) — World Champions 2006
Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) (2006-current)Notable players

Players are ordered by year of debut with national football team

1915

Luigi Cevenini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Cevenini) (MF)1920

Virginio Rosetta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginio_Rosetta) (MF)1924

Giampiero Combi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giampiero_Combi) (GK)
Felice Levratto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felice_Levratto) (FW)1926

Attilio Ferraris (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attilio_Ferraris) (MF)1929

Raimundo Orsi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raimundo_Orsi) (FW)1930

Giovanni Ferrari (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Ferrari) (MF)
Giuseppe Meazza (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Meazza) (FW)1932

Luis Monti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Monti) (MF)1935

Silvio Piola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvio_Piola) (FW)1938

Amedeo Biavati (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amedeo_Biavati) (FW)1942

Valentino Mazzola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentino_Mazzola) (MF)1947

Giampiero Boniperti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giampiero_Boniperti) (FW)1949

Amedeo Amadei (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amedeo_Amadei) (FW)1961

Enrico Albertosi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enrico_Albertosi) (GK)
Mario Corso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mario_Corso) (MF)1962

Gianni Rivera (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianni_Rivera) (MF)1963

Giacinto Facchetti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacinto_Facchetti) (DF)
Sandro Mazzola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandro_Mazzola) (FW)1964

Armando Picchi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armando_Picchi) (DF)1965

Luigi Riva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luigi_Riva) (FW)1967

Roberto Boninsegna (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Boninsegna) (FW)1968

Dino Zoff (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Zoff) (GK)1971

Romeo Benetti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romeo_Benetti) (MF)
Claudio Sala (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudio_Sala) (MF)1972

Fabio Capello (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Capello) (MF)
Franco Causio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco_Causio) (MF)
Giorgio Chinaglia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giorgio_Chinaglia) (FW)1973

Paolo Pulici (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Pulici) (FW)1974

Giancarlo Antognoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giancarlo_Antognoni) (MF)1975

Roberto Bettega (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Bettega) (FW)
Claudio Gentile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudio_Gentile) (DF)
Francesco Graziani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Graziani) (FW)
Gaetano Scirea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaetano_Scirea) (DF)1976

Marco Tardelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Tardelli) (MF)1977

Paolo Rossi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Rossi) (FW)1978

Antonio Cabrini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cabrini) (DF)
Gabriele Oriali (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabriele_Oriali) (MF)1979

Fulvio Collovati (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulvio_Collovati) (DF)1980

Alessandro Altobelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Altobelli) (FW)
Bruno Conti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruno_Conti) (MF)1982

Franco Baresi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco_Baresi) (DF)
Giuseppe Bergomi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Bergomi) (DF)1986

Roberto Donadoni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Donadoni) (MF)1984

Roberto Mancini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Mancini) (FW)1985

Gianluca Vialli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Vialli) (FW)1986

Walter Zenga (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Zenga) (GK)1988

Roberto Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberto_Baggio) (MF)
Paolo Maldini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Maldini) (DF)1990

Salvatore Schillaci (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvatore_Schillaci) (FW)1991

Demetrio Albertini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demetrio_Albertini) (MF)
Dino Baggio (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dino_Baggio) (MF)
Alessandro Costacurta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Costacurta) (DF)
Alberigo Evani (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alberigo_Evani) (MF)
Gianluca Pagliuca (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Pagliuca) (GK)
Gianfranco Zola (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianfranco_Zola) (MF)1992

Giuseppe Signori (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giuseppe_Signori) (FW)1993

Fabio Cannavaro (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Cannavaro) (DF)1995

Angelo Peruzzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angelo_Peruzzi) (GK)
Fabrizio Ravanelli (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabrizio_Ravanelli) (FW)
Francesco Toldo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Toldo) (GK)
Alessandro Del Piero (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Del_Piero) (FW)1996

Alessandro Nesta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alessandro_Nesta) (DF)1997

Gianluigi Buffon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluigi_Buffon) (GK)
Christian Vieri (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Vieri) (FW)1999

Gianluca Zambrotta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gianluca_Zambrotta) (DF)2000

Gennaro Gattuso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gennaro_Gattuso) (MF)
Francesco Totti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francesco_Totti) (FW)2001

Marco Materazzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Materazzi) (DF)2002

Andrea Pirlo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_Pirlo) (MF)2003

Fabio Grosso (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Grosso) (DF)2004

Luca Toni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Toni) (FW)All Time Goal Scorers

LEGEND: Nr.of Goals, Surname, Name, Position, Club, Goals from Club, Oriundo: Home country.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: GK - Goalkeeper, DF - Defender, MF - Midfielder, AT - Attacker


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/b0b/saf46759244e3ab7.jpg
35 RIVA Luigi (AT) (Cagliari 35)


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33 MEAZZA Giuseppe (MF) (Inter 33)


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30 PIOLA Silvio (AT) (Lazio 28, Juventus 2, Novara 0)


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27 BAGGIO Roberto (MF) (Fiorentina 5, Juventus 19, Milan 1, Bologna 2, Inter 0, Brescia 0)
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27 DEL PIERO Alessandro (AT) (Juventus 27)


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25 ALTOBELLI Alessandro (AT) (Inter 25)
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25 BALONCIERI Adolfo (MF) (Alessandria 7, Torino 18)
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25 INZAGHI Filippo (AT) (Atalanta 0, Juventus 15, Milan 10)


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23 GRAZIANI Francesco (AT) (Torino 20, Fiorentina 3)
http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/706/saf467594cba645d.jpg
23 VIERI Christian (AT) (Juventus 1, Atletico Madrid 6, Lazio 2, Inter 13, Milan 1)


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22 MAZZOLA Alessandro (MF) (Inter 22)


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/072/saf46759509e6c65.jpg
20 ROSSI Paolo (AT) (Vicenza 7, Perugia 0, Juventus 13, Milan 0)


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/44c/saf46759541d89cc.jpg
19 BETTEGA Roberto (AT) (Juventus 19)


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/387/saf4675956be9168.jpg
16 VIALLI Gianluca (AT) (Sampdoria 14, Juventus 2)

15 COLAUSSI Gino (AT) (Triestina 15)
15 LIBONATTI Julio (AT) (Torino 15) Oriundo: Argentina
15 SCHIAVIO Angelo (AT) (Bologna 15)

14 FERRARI Giovanni (MF) (Alessandria 0, Juventus 10, Inter 4)
14 RIVERA Gianni (MF) (Milan 14)

13 CASIRAGHI Pier L. (AT) (Juventus 2, Lazio 11)
13 MAGNOZZI Mario (MF) (Livorno 12, Milan 1)
13 ORSI Raimondo (AT) (Juventus 13) Oriundo: Argentina

12 TONI Luca (AT) (Palermo 2, Fiorentina 10)

11 CEVENINI Luigi (MF) (Inter 11, Novese 0, Juventus 0)
11 LEVRATTO Virgilio F. (AT) (Vado 0, Verona 2, Genoa 9)

10 CARAPELLESE Riccardo (AT) (Milan 7, Torino 2, Genoa 1)
10 ZOLA Gianfranco (MF) (Napoli 0, Parma 7, Chelsea 3)


All Time Appearances

LEGEND: Nr.of Games, Surname, Name, Position, Date of Debute, Club, Games from Club, Oriundo: Home country.
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: GK - Goalkeeper, DF - Defender, MF - Midfielder, AT - Attacker.


http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/6c4/saf4675963c18f35.jpg
126 MALDINI Paolo (DF) 31-03-1988 (Milan 126)


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112 ZOFF Dino (GK) 20-04-1968 (Napoli 19, Juventus 93)


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108 CANNAVARO Fabio (DF) 22-01-1997 (Parma 61, Inter 19, Juventus 20, R Madrid 8)


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94 FACCHETTI Giacinto (DF) 27-03-1963 (Inter 94)


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83 DEL PIERO Alessandro (AT) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 83)


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81 BARESI Franco (DF) 04-12-1982 (Milan 81)
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81 BERGOMI Giuseppe (DF) 14-04-1982 (Inter 81)
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81 TARDELLI Marco (MF) 07-04-1976 (Juventus 80, Inter 1)


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79 ALBERTINI Demetrio (MF) 21-12-1991 (Milan 79)


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78 NESTA Alessandro (DF) 05-10-1996 (Lazio 47, Milan 31)
http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/536/saf46759771e21db.jpg
78 SCIREA Gaetano (DF) 30-12-1975 (Juventus 78)


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75 BUFFON Gianluigi (GK) 29-10-1997 (Parma 20, Juventus 55)


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73 ANTOGNONI Giancarlo (MF) 20-11-1974 (Fiorentina 73)
http://www.imagebeaver.com/files4/i/bd9/saf467597e09ec7c.jpg
73 CABRINI Antonio (DF) 02-06-1978 (Juventus 73)


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71 GENTILE Claudio (DF) 19-04-1975 (Juventus 71)

70 MAZZOLA Alessandro (MF) 12-05-1963 (Inter 70)

66 BURGNICH Tarcisio (DF) 10-11-1963 (Inter 66)

64 GRAZIANI Francesco (AT) 19-04-1975 (Torino 47, Fiorentina 17)
64 ZAMBROTTA Gian Luca (DF) 10-02-1999 (Bari 2, Juventus 56, Barcelona 6)

63 CAUSIO Franco (MF) 29-04-1972 (Juventus 57, Udinese 6)
63 DONADONI Roberto (MF) 08-10-1986 (Milan 59, Metro Stars NY 4)

61 ALTOBELLI Alessandro (AT) 18-06-1980 (Inter 61)

60 BAGGIO Dino (MF) 21-12-1991 (Inter 1, Juventus 19, Parma 40)
60 RIVERA Gianni (MF) 13-05-1962 (Milan 60)

59 CALIGARIS Umberto (DF) 15-01-1922 (Casale 37, Juventus 22)
59 COSTACURTA Alessandro (DF) 13-11-1991 (Milan 59)
59 VIALLI Gianluca (AT) 16-11-1985 (Sampdoria 56, Juventus 3)

58 TOTTI Francesco (AT) 10-10-1998 (Roma 58)
58 ZENGA Walter (GK) 08-10-1986 (Inter 58)

56 BAGGIO Roberto (MF) 16-11-1988 (Fiorentina 13, Juventus 31, Milan 2, Bologna 6, Inter 3, Brescia 1)

55 BENETTI Romeo (MF) 25-09-1971 (Milan 29, Juventus 22, Roma 4)
55 INZAGHI Filippo (AT) 08-06-1997 (Atalanta 1, Juventus 31, Milan 23)

54 DE NAPOLI Fernando (MF) 11-05-1986 (Avellino 5, Napoli 49)

53 MEAZZA Giuseppe (MF) 09-02-1930 (Inter 53)
53 GATTUSO Gennaro Ivan (MF) 23-02-2000 (Milan 53)

52 ROSETTA Virginio (DF) 31-08-1920 (Pro Vercelli 10, Juventus 42)

50 COLLOVATI Fulvio (DF) 24-02-1979 (Milan 33, Inter 17)

49 FERRARA Ciro (DF) 10-06-1987 (Napoli 25, Juventus 24)
49 VIERI Christian (AT) 29-03-1997 (Juventus 4, Atletico Madrid 9, Lazio 4, Inter 28, Milan 4)

48 PANUCCI Christian (DF) 07-09-1994 (Milan 4, Real Madrid 13, Inter 4, Roma 27)
48 ROSSI Paolo (AT) 21-12-1977 (Vicenza 14, Perugia 5, Juventus 27, Milan 2)

47 BALONCIERI Adolfo (MF) 13-05-1920 (Alessandria 20, Torino 27)
47 COMBI Gianpiero (GK) 06-04-1924 (Juventus 47)
47 CONTI Bruno (MF) 11-10-1980 (Roma 47)
47 GIANNINI Giuseppe (MF) 06-12-1986 (Roma 47)

45 FERRI Riccardo (DF) 06-12-1986 (Inter 45)
45 VIERCHOWOD Pietro (DF) 06-01-1981 (Como 2, Sampdoria 43)

44 CASIRAGHI Pier Luigi (AT) 13-02-1991 (Juventus 10, Lazio 34)
44 FERRARI Giovanni (MF) 09-02-1930 (Alessandria 1, Juventus 26, Inter 17)

43 DE VECCHI Renzo (DF) 26-05-1910 (Milan 12, Genoa 31)

42 BETTEGA Roberto (AT) 05-06-1975 (Juventus 42)
42 RIVA Luigi (AT) 27-06-1965 (Cagliari 42)

41 BAGNI Salvatore (MF) 06-01-1981 (Perugia 3, Inter 10, Napoli 28)

40 DI LIVIO Angelo (MF) 06-09-1995 (Juventus 27, Fiorentina 13)

39 BERTI Nicola (MF) 19-10-1988 (Inter 39)
39 PAGLIUCA Gianluca (GK) 16-06-1991 (Sampdoria 23, Inter 16)

38 BONIPERTI Giampiero (AT) 09-11-1947 (Juventus 38)
38 DOSSENA Giuseppe (MF) 19-04-1981 (Bologna 2, Torino 36)
38 FIORE Stefano (MF) 23-02-2000 (Udinese 18, Lazio 17, Valencia 3)
38 MATERAZZI Marco (DF) 25-04-2001 (Perugia 2, Inter 36)
38 PIRLO Andrea (MF) 07-09-2002 (Milan 38)

37 ROSATO Roberto (DF) 13-03-1965 (Torino 14, Milan 23)

36 DE AGOSTINI Luigi (DF) 28-05-1987 (Verona 3, Juventus 33)
36 MANCINI Roberto (AT) 26-05-1984 (Sampdoria 36)
36 PERROTTA Simone (MF) 20-11-2002 (Chievo Verona 19, Roma 17)
36 SALVADORE Sandro (DF) 10-12-1960 (Milan 8, Juventus 28)

35 MONZEGLIO Eraldo (DF) 11-05-1930 (Bologna 21, Roma 14)
35 ORSI Raimondo (AT) 01-12-1929 (Juventus 35) Oriundo: Argentina
35 ZOLA Gianfranco (MF) 13-11-1991 (Napoli 3, Parma 23, Chelsea 9)

34 ALBERTOSI Enrico (GK) 15-06-1961 (Fiorentina 18, Cagliari 16)
34 DI MATTEO Roberto (MF) 16-11-1994 (Lazio 15, Chelsea 19)
34 PIOLA Silvio (AT) 24-03-1935 (Lazio 30, Juventus 2, Novara 2)

33 DOMENGHINI Angelo (AT) 10-11-1963 (Atalanta 1, Inter 17, Cagliari 15)

32 BELLUGI Mauro (DF) 07-10-1972 (Inter 7, Bologna 24, Napoli 1)
32 CAPELLO Fabio (MF) 13-05-1972 (Juventus 27 Milan 5)

31 CONTI Leopoldo (MF) 28-03-1920 (Inter 31)
31 DI BIAGIO Luigi (MF) 28-01-1998 (Roma 12, Inter 19)
31 PERUZZI Angelo (GK) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 26, Lazio 5)

30 CAMORANESI Mauro German (MF) 12-02-2003 (Juventus 30) Oriundo: Argentina
30 RAVA Pietro (DF) 03-08-1936 (Juventus 29, Alessandria 1)

29 BULGARELLI Giacomo (MF) 07-06-1962 (Bologna 29)
29 CEVENINI Luigi (MF) 31-01-1915 (Inter 22, Novese 4, Juventus 3)
29 DE SISTI Giancarlo (MF) 01-11-1967 (Fiorentina 29)
29 MAGNOZZI Mario (MF) 25-05-1924 (Livorno 26, Milan 3)
29 PITTO Alfredo (MF) 01-01-1928 (Bologna 21, Fiorentina 5, Inter 3)

28 CERVATO Sergio (DF) 08-04-1951 (Fiorentina 25, Juventus 3)
28 FERRARIS Attilio (MF) 09-05-1926 (Roma 25, Lazio 3)
28 LEVRATTO Virgilio F. (AT) 25-05-1924 (Vado 3, Verona 4, Genoa 21)
28 ODDO Massimo (DF) 21-08-2002 (Verona 1, Lazio 24, Milan 3)
28 ORIALI Gabriele (MF) 21-12-1978 (Inter 28)
28 SIGNORI Giuseppe (AT) 31-05-1992 (Foggia 3, Lazio 25)
28 TOLDO Francesco (GK) 08-10-1995 (Fiorentina 18, Inter 10)

27 DE ROSSI Daniele (MF) 04-09-2004 (Roma 27)
27 TONI Luca (AT) 18-08-2004 (Palermo 10, Fiorentina 17)

26 ANCELOTTI Carlo (MF) 06-01-1981 (Roma 13, Milan 13)
26 ANDREOLO Michele (MF) 17-05-1936 (Bologna 26) Oriundo: Uruguay
26 BERNARDINI Fulvio (MF) 22-03-1925 (Lazio 9, Inter 11, Roma 6)
26 BERTOLINI Luigi (MF) 01-12-1929 (Alessandria 6, Juventus 20)
26 COLAUSSI Gino (AT) 27-10-1935 (Triestina 26)

25 ANASTASI Pietro (AT) 08-06-1968 (Varese 2, Juventus 23)
25 BERTINI Mario (MF) 29-06-1966 (Fiorentina 3 Inter 22)
25 FUSER Diego (MF) 24-02-1993 (Lazio 14, Parma 11)
25 GROSSO Fabio (MF) 30-04-2003 (Perugia 3, Palermo 20, Inter 2)
25 TOMMASI Damiano (MF) 18-11-1998 (Roma 25)
25 ZACCARELLI Renato (MF) 26-10-1975 (Torino 25)

24 ALLEMANDI Luigi (DF) 04-11-1925 (Juventus 3, Inter 13, Roma 8)
24 AMBROSINI Massimo (MF) 28-04-1999 (Milan 24)
24 OLIVIERI Aldo (GK) 15-11-1936 (Lucchese 12, Torino 12)
24 SERENA Aldo (AT) 08-12-1984 (Torino 2, Juventus 6, Inter 16)

23 BENARRIVO Antonio (DF) 22-09-1993 (Parma 23)
23 CORSO Mario (MF) 24-05-1961 (Inter 23)
23 COSTANTINO Raffaele (MF) 01-12-1929 (Bari 6, Roma 17)
23 FONI Alfredo (DF) 03-08-1936 (Juventus 23)
23 GILARDINO Alberto (AT) 04-09-2004 (Parma 6, Milan 17)
23 JANNI Antonio (MF) 23-11-1924 (Torino 23)

22 BONINSEGNA Roberto (AT) 18-11-1967 (Cagliari 1, Inter 21)
22 BORDON Ivano (GK) 25-01-1978 (Inter 14, Sampdoria 8 )
22 DELVECCHIO Marco (AT) 16-12-1998 (Roma 22)
22 LOCATELLI Ugo (MF) 03-08-1936 (Inter 22)
22 PESSOTTO Gianluca (DF) 09-10-1996 (Juventus 22)
22 RAVANELLI Fabrizio (AT) 25-03-1995 (Juventus 11, Middlesbrough 6, Olympique Marseille 5)

21 BARBIERI Ottavio (MF) 05-05-1921 (Genoa 21)
21 GUARNERI Aristide (DF) 12-05-1963 (Inter 18, Bologna 3)
21 MORA Bruno (MF) 29-11-1959 (Sampdoria 2, Juventus 9, Milan 10)
21 PANDOLFINI Egisto (MF) 02-07-1950 (Fiorentina 7, Roma 12, Inter 2)
21 SCHIAVIO Angelo (AT) 04-11-1925 (Bologna 21)

20 CONTE Antonio (MF) 27-05-1994 (Juventus 20)
20 ERANIO Stefano (MF) 22-12-1990 (Genoa 8, Milan 12)
20 MAGNINI Ardico (DF) 26-04-1953 (Fiorentina 20)
20 MARINI Giampiero (MF) 01-11-1980 (Inter 20)
20 MONTELLA Vincenzo (AT) 05-06-1999 (Sampdoria 1, Roma 19)
20 SEGATO Armando (MF) 13-11-1953 (Fiorentina 20)

Nice work bro jeemack =D> !! Congratz atas dibuatnya thread ini ;) !!

[pinjem_bud]

Giuseppe Signori

http://www.sporting-heroes.net/files_footballworldcup/SIGNORI_G_19940618_GH_R.jpg

Giuseppe Signori lahir di Alzano Lombardo, Italia pada tanggal 17 Februari 1968 adalah seorang pesepak bola dari Italia yang berposisi sebagai striker atau penyerang tengah. Giuseppe Signori atau biasa di panggil Beppe memiliki rekor bermain bersama tim nasional Italia sebanyak 28 penampilan dan mencetak 7 gol. Giuseppe Signori menjadi pencetak gol terbanyak liga Italia Serie A sebanyak tiga kali yaitu pada tahun 1993, 1994, dan 1996 ketika itu Giuseppe Signori bermain untuk Lazio.

http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/jpg/rosa94.jpg


http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/gif/flagitap.gifWorld Cup USA 1994 (Fifa World Cup), : 2nd place


Coach: Arrigo Sacchi


Goalkeepers:
Gianluca Pagliuca (Sampdoria), Luca Marchegiani (Lazio), Luca Bucci (Parma)

Defenders:
Franco Baresi (Milan) (C), Paolo Maldini (Milan), Mauro Tassotti (Milan), Antonio Benarrivo (Parma), Lorenzo Minotti (Parma), Alessandro Costacurta (Milan), Luigi Apolloni (Parma), Roberto Mussi (Parma)

Midfielders:
Demetrio Albertini (Milan), Antonio Conte (Juventus), Roberto Donadoni (Milan), Alberigo Evani (Milan), Nicola Berti (Inter), Dino Baggio (Juventus)

Forwards:
Roberto Baggio (Juventus), Giuseppe Signori (Lazio), Daniele Massaro (Milan), Pierluigi Casiraghi (Lazio), Gianfranco Zola (Parma)

[pinjem_bud]

Massimo Oddo

http://big5.southcn.com/gate/big5/www.southcn.com/sports/2006wc/star2/200606020596_1279914.jpg

Massimo Oddo (lahir pada 14 Juni 1976 di Città Sant'Angelo, Pescara) adalah seorang pemain sepak bola asal Italia. Posisinya adalah bek kanan. Ia memperkuat AC Milan di Seri A Italia sejak Januari 2007. Ayahnya, Francesco Oddo, adalah pelatih serta mantan pemain sepak bola.
Ia mulai dipanggil masuk ke tim nasional sepak bola Italia pada tahun 2002. Hingga 15 November 2006 Oddo telah 25 kali memperkuat tim nasional dan mencetak 1 gol, termasuk bermain di Piala Eropa 2004 dan Piala Dunia 2006.

http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/jpg/italia2006%20(1).jpg


http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/gif/flagitap.gifWorld Cup Germany 2006 (Fifa World Cup),: Italy World Champion

Coach: Marcello Lippi


Goalkeepers:
1 Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), 12 Angelo Peruzzi (Lazio), 14 Marco Amelia (Livorno)

Defenders:
5 Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus) (C), 13 Alessandro Nesta (Milan), 23 Marco Materazzi (Inter), 19 Gianluca Zambrotta (Juventus), 3 Fabio Grosso (Palermo), 2 Cristian Zaccardo (Palermo), 6 Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), 22 Massimo Oddo (Lazio)

Midfielders:
8 Gennaro Ivan Gattuso (Milan), 16 Mauro German Camoranesi (Juventus), 21 Andrea Pirlo (Milan), 4 Daniele De Rossi (Roma), 20 Simone Perrotta (Roma), 17 Simone Barone (Palermo)

Forwards:
7 Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), 18 Filippo Inzaghi (Milan), 10 Francesco Totti (Roma), 9 Luca Toni (Fiorentina), 11 Alberto Gilardino (Milan), 15 Vincenzo Iaquinta (Udinese)

[pinjem_bud]

Paolo Maldini

http://www.postadelgufo.it/jpg/maldini.jpg

Paolo Maldini (lahir 26 Juni 1968 di Milan) adalah seorang pesepak bola Italia. Sepanjang karirnya dia hanya bermain di klub AC Milan, di mana dia paling sering diposisikan sebagai bek kiri dan bek tengah. Ia bertinggi tubuh 188 cm.

http://biografie.leonardo.it/img/bio/p/Paolo_Maldini.jpg

Maldini adalah pemain dengan rekor penampilan terbanyak dalam tim nasional Italia meski belum pernah meraih gelar pada tingkat internasional. Maldini berpartisipasi di empat Piala Dunia, dan turut serta dalam final Piala Dunia 1990, 1994, 1998 dan 2002. Dia pensiun dari timnas setelah Piala Dunia 2002 dengan jumlah penampilan 126 kali dan mencetak 7 gol. Selain itu, Paolo Maldini juga 3 kali masuk ke dalam skuad Italia di Piala Eropa, yaitu di tahun 1988, 1996 dan 2000. Pada Piala Eropa 2000 Maldini menjadi kapten dari tim nasional Italia yang kalah dramatis dari Perancis di final.
Setelah pensiun dari timnas, Paolo Maldini masih bermain untuk AC Milan, dan membantu klub tersebut memenangi gelar juara Liga Champions tahun 2003 dan juara Serie A Italia pada tahun berikutnya. Sehingga muncul tuntutan publik yang menginginkan Maldini untuk keluar dari masa pensiun timnas-nya guna mengikuti Piala Eropa pada tahun 2004, namun hal tersebut ditolak dengan alasan pribadi. Ayahnya, Cesare, yang juga seorang kapten AC Milan pada tahun 1960-an, menjuarai Piala Champions pada tahun 1963. Generasi ketiga Maldini yang merupakan putra pertama Paolo dengan model asal Venezuela Adriana Fossa, Christian Maldini, saat ini juga masuk ke dalam klub AC Milan untuk kategori tim muda.

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http://www.nazionaleitalianacalcio.it/gif/flagitap.gifWorld Cup Italy 1990 (FIFA World Cup), : 3rd place

Coach: Azeglio Vicini


Goalkeepers:
Walter Zenga (Inter), Stefano Tacconi (Juventus), Gianluca Pagliuca (Sampdoria)

Defenders:
Franco Baresi (Milan), Giuseppe Bergomi (Inter) (C),Paolo Maldini (Milan), Luigi De Agostini (Juventus), Ciro Ferrara (Napoli), Riccardo Ferri (Inter), Pietro Vierchowod (Sampdoria)

Midfielders:
Carlo Ancelotti (Milan), Nicola Berti (Inter), Fernando De Napoli (Napoli), Roberto Donadoni (Milan), Giuseppe Giannini (Roma), Giancarlo Marocchi (Juventus)

Forwards:
Andrea Carnevale (Napoli), Roberto Baggio (Fiorentina), Roberto Mancini (Sampdoria), Salvatore Schillaci (Juventus), Aldo Serena (Inter), Gianluca Vialli (Sampdoria)

[jeemack]

Dino Zoff - Italy’s towering guardian


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Name: Dino Zoff
Date of birth: 28 February 1942
Birthplace: Mariano del Friuli, Italy

A rock; a workaholic; a perfectionist: Dino Zoff is one of the greatest goalkeepers the world has known. The facts speak for themselves: he was part of four FIFA World Cup™ squads, playing in three and emerging a champion at Spain 1982, won 111 caps and holds the record of 1,142 minutes without conceding a goal.

Yet this son of farming stock would not have had it any other way. "All that I have, I have earned through hard work," he once said. Football would take the country boy out of Italy's agricultural northeast; yet the country, proud and pragmatic, never really left Zoff.

Humble Beginnings
Growing up in this erstwhile corner of the Austro-Hungarian empire had its advantages, not least the diet. When he was rejected by Inter Milan and Juventus as a 14-year-old - with the time-honoured excuse that he was too small - Zoff's grandmother Adelaide had the answer: to feed him up on eggs.

Five years on and Zoff's displays for his village team, Marianese, were giving the scouts at nearby Udinese food for thought. He had grown 33 centimetres to 1.82 metres - a rise that earned him a leap in faith on the part of the Serie A club. Soon Zoff was leaving his job as a motor mechanic to sign professional forms. He was not, however, a smooth starter and let in five goals on his debut at Fiorentina on 24 September 1961. Demotion beckoned, for player and club.

Zoff had made just four appearances for the Friuli club when Mantova restored him to the top flight the next season. Here his career really did take off. By 1966, he was being considered for Italy's FIFA World Cup squad alongside Enrico Albertosi, Roberto Anzolin and Pierluigi Pizzaballa. In the event, Azzurri coach Edmondo Fabbri selected the latter trio, because, as Zoff explained, "he did not want to be accused of favouritism being a Mantova man himself".

Consolation came in the shapely form of wife Anna-Maria. The subsequent birth of son Marco meant there would be two new arrivals in Zoff's life in 1967. That was the year Napoli welcomed him to the south of Italy in exchange for 130 million lire and goalkeeper Bandoni. The Naples club succeeded where AC Milan, ever reluctant to meet Mantova's price, had failed. "I have great memories of my time there," Zoff said. "It is such a lively city."

Remarkable Achievements
A memorable one too, as it turned out. Zoff made his international debut there in the 2-0 win against Bulgaria in April 1968. It was a UEFA European Championship quarter-final and he stayed in the team as Italy reached the Final, where they beat Yugoslavia in a replay.

A worthy start to an international career that only the great Paolo Maldini would eclipse three decades on. Yet not even the photogenic Maldini made the front cover of Newsweek magazine. That particular honour fell to Zoff in 1982, as he bowed out of international football in much the same way he had entered it: with a winner's medal.

That he did so as a 40-year-old in the FIFA World Cup was suitable recompense for his years of dedication. Seasons punctuated more by triumph than by disaster. The small defeats of losing his place to Albertosi at Mexico 1970, of being "not at my best" in Argentina eight years later, were nothing compared with six Italian Championships golds with Juventus.

It was half a lifetime ago that Zoff swapped Turin for Naples. It was a fresh challenge for a player who always seemed as interested in setting goals as he was in saving them. Perhaps this was the secret of his longevity.

In Zoff's case, the past really was history. And the fact that he was only ever as good as his last game allowed him to retain his enthusiasm through 570 Serie A appearances, 330 made in perfect sequence while at Juventus. Halcyon days indeed, those 11 terms at the Stadio Comunale.

Certainly, the Bianconeri got their money's worth out of their 330 million lire signing. In return, as well as the six Scudettos, Zoff picked up the UEFA Cup and two Italian Cups. The one caveat was the UEFA European Cup, where he was twice a loser: against Ajax in 1973 and then Hamburg years later.

Leading from the Bench
The latter final was Zoff's farewell to the big time. He retired to become a goalkeeping coach at Juventus. But it was not enough. "As far as I was concerned it was a dead-end job," he said.

So he took the post of coach to Italy's Olympic team ahead of the Seoul Games - and impressed sufficiently to be offered the manager's job back at Juventus in 1988. Victories in the Italian and UEFA Cups, plus a third-place finish in the league, ensured the club would not regret their choice, although the arrangement lasted but a year.

Next stop was Lazio. In Rome, Zoff had four campaigns as coach then assumed the role of president. He oversaw the Eagles' transition from poor relations in the Eternal City to plc... and even had a brief spell as caretaker coach in 1997.

His next appointment was arguably the pinnacle: replacing Cesare Maldini as Italy trainer after the poor showing of the Azzurri at France 1998. And but for David Trezeguet's golden goal in the UEFA EURO 2000 final, he might well have been the man responsible for the country's first international success since Spain 1982.

Yet according to the Italian press, second place was for losers. Stung by the criticism, Zoff retired and returned to Lazio, again as coach. He took them to third position and the UEFA Champions League, yet could not satisfy fans who had feasted on a league and cup double a year earlier. So when the 2001/02 season began with embarrassing defeats at home and in Europe, the Zoff removal vans were again in motion - doubtless laden with the trophies from a wonderful career in the game.


Playing Career

International career
Italy: 1968 - 1983
111 caps
55 wins, 36 draws, 20 losses

Honours
1982 FIFA World Cup™ winner
1968 UEFA European Championship winner

Individual
1982 FIFA World Cup best goalkeeper
UEFA Golden Player Italy

FIFA World Cup appearances
17 caps, 16 goals conceded
9 wins; 5 draws; 3 losses

Mexico 1970
Not used

Germany 1974
Italy 3-1 Haiti
Italy 1-1 Argentina
Poland 2-1 Italy

Argentina 1978
Italy 2-1 France
Italy 3-1 Hungary
Italy 1-0 Argentina
Italy 0-0 West Germany
Italy 1-0 Austria
Netherlands 2-1 Italy
Brazil 2-1 Italy

Spain 1982
Italy 0-0 Poland
Italy 1-1 Peru
Italy 1-1 Cameroon
Italy 2-1 Argentina
Italy 3-2 Brazil
Italy 2-0 Poland
Italy 3-1 West Germany

Club career
1961-1963 Udinese
1963-1967 Mantova
1967-1972 Napoli
1972-1983 Juventus

Honours
UEFA Cup winner: 1977
Italian Championship winner: 1973, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981, 1982
Italian Cup winner: 1979, 1983

Individual
FIFA 100 inductee

Coaching career

1988 - 1990 Juventus
1990 - 1994 Lazio
1997 Lazio
1998 - 2000 Italian national team
2001 Lazio
2005 Fiorentina

Honours
UEFA EURO 2000: runner-up
UEFA Cup winner: 1990
Italian Cup winner: 1990


Quotes

"He was a level-headed goalkeeper, capable of staying calm during the toughest and the most exhilarating moments. He always held back both out of modesty and respect for his opponents. At the end of the Brazil match, he came over to give me a kiss on the cheek, without saying a single word. For me, that fleeting moment was the most intense of the entire World Cup." - Enzo Bearzot, Italy coach at Spain 1982

"Dino always protected me as if I were his little brother." - Gaetano Scirea, Juventus and Italy legend

"Dino was Italy's most important player in 1982. He was the one who truly represented the team. He was an example to all of us, myself more than anyone." - Paolo Rossi, adidas Golden Ball and adidas Golden Shoe winner at Spain 1982

"Zoff protected his goal with absolute rigour, whereas I have a different style. I honestly think goalkeepers are people who are a little crazy. Our role is special, a typical, and we have a different make-up." - Gianluigi Buffon, Italy's FIFA 2006 World Cup TM- winning goalkeeper

[pinjem_bud]

Italia Tetap Nomor Satu, Prancis di Urutan Kedua Peringkat FIFA

Rabu, 13 Juni 2007
Italia yang menjadi juara Piala Dunia 2006 tetap menjadi tim sepak bola nomor satu dunia. Hal itu terlihat dari peringkat terbaru yang dikeluarkan badan sepak bola duunia (FIFA).

Dalam daftar itu, Prancis mengalami kenaikan posisi dua tingkat ke urutan dua. Rangkaian kemenangan yang diraih Prancis di ajang kualifikasi Euro 2008 mengantar tim ini menggeser posisi Brasil. Tim Samba sendiri turun setingkat ke peringkat ketiga.

Argentina turun dua peringkat ke posisi kelima, sedangkan menghuni posisi keempat.

Berikut ranking terbaru yang dirilis FIFA.
1. Italia (posisi lama: 1), 1.653 points.
2. Prancis (4), 1.585.
3. Brasil (2), 1.484.
4. Jerman (5) 1.467.
5. Argentina (3), 1.373.
6. Portugal (7) 1.323.
7. Spanyol (9) 1.273.
8. Inggris (8) 1.240.
9. Belanda (6) 1.220.
10. Rep. Cek (10) 1.096.

[jeemack]

Presiden Liga Calcio Kritik Donadoni


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Hubungan pelatih timnas Italia Roberto Donadoni dengan Presiden Lega Calcio Antonio Matarrese memanas. Kritikan Donadoni soal jadwal, mendapat balasan ketus.

Donadoni sebelumnya meminta pihak liga agar memajukan jadwal musim depan menjadi 19 Agustus. Hal ini untuk memberi masa persiapan lebih mengingat Italia akan menghadapi pertandingan penting kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Prancis dan Ukraina pada 8 September.

Namun permintaan yang disampaikan lewat media itu ditolak. Alasannya, musim transfer masih terlalu lama tutupnya yakni akhir Agustus, sehingga jadwal semula 26 Agustus sudah sangat ideal.

"Jika Donadoni lebih sedikit berbicara, saya pikir akan lebih bagus bagi kita semua. Dia adalah seorang yang baik, tetapi saat menghadapi isu ini, saya bahkan tidak mengenal Donadoni yang dulu saya tahu," balas Matarrese seperti dilansir Channel4, Selasa (3/7/2007).

"Dia adalah pelatih yang bagus, tim juga kuat dan kami tak butuh bicara banyak. Dia tidak harus menunjukkan titik lemahnya, dia memiliki para pemain luar biasa. Saya pikir dua atau tiga pertandingan tidak akan terlalu berpengaruh terhadap hasil akhirnya," tambah Matarrese.

[pinjem_bud]

Timnas Italia Lolos ke Olimpiade 2008


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AMSTERDAM-: Italia memastikan tiket cabang sepak bola Olimpiade Beijing 2008. Kepastian ini didapat setelah Azzuri mengalahkan Portugal 4-3 dalam adu penalti pada babak play off kejuaraan Eropa U-21 di Nijmegen, Kamis (22/6).
Kiper Italia Emiliano Viviano menjadi pahlawan kemenangan Italia dengan mementahkan penalti bek Portugal Manuel Fernandes. Satu penalti Portugal lainnya yang dilakukan Antunes gagal menembus gawang Italia.
Pertandingan Italia-Portugal sendiri berlangsung ketat. Kedua tim sama-sama memiliki beberapa peluang mencetak gol Italia sendiri harus bermain dengan 10 orang sejak menit ke-74 menyusul kartu kuning kedua yang diterima Giuseppe Rossi.
Namun keunggulan jumlah pemain ini tidak mampu dimanfaatkan Portugal untuk meraih kemenangan. Hingga 120 menit, kedudukan tetap 0-0 dan harus dilakukan adu penalti.
Sepanjang sejarah, Italia tampil 14 kali dalam cabang sepak bola Olimpiade. Prestasi terbaik didapat di Olimpiade Athena tiga tahun lalu dengan merebut medali perunggu.

[pinjem_bud]

Italy choose Milan for France visit

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The Giuseppe Meazza in Milan

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced today that the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against France on 8 September will be staged at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan.

France on top
"The game against France will be played at the San Siro," said FIGC president Giancarlo Abete after a meeting in Rome. Italy are second in Group B with 16 points, two behind a France team who defeated the Azzurri 3-1 last September in the first repeat of the 2006 FIFA World Cup final. Italy will travel to Ukraine four days later, when Les Bleus entertain third-placed Scotland.

[jeemack]

Euro 2008

ITALY-FRANCE WILL BE PLAYED SEPTEMBER 8TH IN MILAN


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Rome 21/06/2007

Italy-France will be played in Milan on September 8th. The announcement was made today by eh FIGC president, Giancarlo Abete, during the press conference that followed the Federal Board meeting. The match between Italy and France is valid for the Euro 2008 qualifications.

After the match on September 98th, the Azzurri will leave for Ukraine where they will play another Euro 2008 qualifying match.

Ticket sales modalities for Italy-France will be communicated at the beginning of July.

[Ethuang]

Azzurri Set Up South Africa Friendly

The FIGC have announced that a friendly has been set up between the Italian national team and World Cup hosts South Africa.


The test match will likely be played in Italy and Azzurri coach Roberto Donadoni will be looking for his first friendly win since taking charge of the World Champions after losing his debut 2-0 to Croatia and drawing 1-1 with Turkey.
At least the pressure on his shoulders has eased off significantly thanks to five straight wins in the Euro 2008 qualifiers, putting Italy second in Group B behind their WC 2006 final opponents France.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 18/07/2007
Totti Serang Demetrio Albertini


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MILAN – Francesco Totti sedang gundah. Il Capitano kesal dengan komentar Komisioner FIGC Demetrio Albertini yang mengungkapkan dia adalah pemain yang akan membantu Gli Azzurri lolos ke babak final Euo 2008. Dia belum membuat kata final kembali memperkuat negaranya. Sampai saat ini suami Ilary Blasi itu menegaskan belum berniat kembali bermain buat negaranya. “Saya tidak tahu kenapa Albertini mengatakan hal seperti itu. Dia terlalu banyak bicara dan saya tidak akan mempedulikannya,” ketus Totti, seperti dilansir Goal, Rabu (18/7/2007).
Italia yang dikomandani Roberto Donadoni memang belum bisa dikatakan aman melangkah ke Swiss dan Austria. Bertengger di posisi kedua Grub B dengan nilai 16, posisi juara bertahan Piala Dunia ini bisa dikejar Skotlandia yang saat ini bertengger di peringkat ketiga dengan selisih satu poin.
Totti sudah terlalu kesal dibuat Albertini. Dia berjanji akan menjernihkan permasalahan ini dengan Roberto Donadoni, dan Gigi Riva.
“Akan susah bagi saya untuk bermain dengan AS Roma dan Italia pada waktu bersamaan. Tapi saya belum membuat keputusan final. Siapapun yang membuat keputusan memulai Seri A pada 26 Agustus jelas tidak mempedulikan perkataan Donadoni yang lebih memilih 19 Agustus sebagai tanggal awal memulai musim,” tutupnya.

[jeemack]

Totti retires from international football

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Italy's Francesco Totti announced his retirement from international football on Friday. The 30-year-old Roma ace, who had not represented the Azzurri since they won the FIFA World Cup™ last July after taking a sabbatical from international duty, finally called it quits due to the physical demands of playing so many matches.

"My main problem is physical," he told a news conference at Roma's Trigoria training ground. "I came to the conclusion that I cannot play in so many matches in a year. I had to give up something and unfortunately it's the national team because I can't give up Roma. They are my priority."

In September 2006, Totti, the Roma captain who was top scorer in Serie A last season with 26 goals, announced he was ready to return to the international set up, but only for important matches. However, his offer to play part-time for his country did not go down well with Italy coach Roberto Donadoni and several of his fellow internationals.

Totti said it was better to quit altogether rather than create animosity within the national team. "I didn't want to create problems with the group and the staff," he added. I'm sorry, but my health is the most important thing."
Totti, who made his Italy debut in October 1998, broke his left ankle in February 2006, but managed to recover in time for Germany 2006. The talismanic Roman struggled for fitness in the early matches and was criticised by the Italian media for his performances.

He was dropped for the second round match against Australia, but came off the bench to score the winning penalty in stoppage time. Totti showed nerves of steel to slam home the spot-kick. As his fitness improved, so did his performances, and he showed touches of genius in the 2-0 extra-time defeat of host nation Germany in the semi-finals.

Totti is regarded as one of Italy's finest players, but has scored just nine goals in his 58 appearances for his country. Perhaps his finest hour was at UEFA EURO 2000, where he helped Italy reach the final which they lost to France on a golden goal.

[jeemack]

Fiorentina complete Vieri signing


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Fiorentina have completed the signing of former Italy international Christian Vieri, the Florence-based Serie A club announced on Friday.

The 34-year-old striker, who was released by Atalanta at the end of the 2006/07 Serie A season, has signed a one-year contract after agreeing terms earlier this week.

Vieri joined Atalanta after spending a year on the sidelines with a knee injury, which he suffered while playing for French club Monaco.

The veteran marskman, whose former clubs include Juventus, Inter Milan and Spanish side Atletico Madrid, scored 23 goals in 49 appearances for Italy.

[jeemack]

Totti calls time on Italy career

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Francesco Totti has retired from international football (©Getty Images)


AS Roma captain Francesco Totti has announced his decision to quit international football at the age of 30 "for physical reasons, not technical ones", having previously decided to take an extended break from the Italy team after the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals.

Final word
At a press conference, the striker said he no longer felt he could play for both Roma and Italy but was keen to underline that this was not down to any problems he had with Roberto Donadoni's coaching. "The word 'end' is not a good one," he said. "However, I took this decision for physical reasons, not for technical ones." Last summer's World Cup final win against France will thus remain his final international appearance for the Azzurri.

Physical reasons
Totti made his international debut in a friendly game against Switzerland in 1998 and ended up scoring nine goals in 58 appearances in total. "I've been thinking about [retiring] since the end of the World Cup and I have decided to retire, but not to create problems for the squad and the new technical staff," he added. "I am really sorry but it is the right decision because my health is the most important thing for me."

Roma first
The striker, who won the ESM Golden Shoe last season after scoring 26 league goals as Roma finished second in Serie A and won the Coppa Italia, is ready to embark upon his 16th consecutive season with the capital club, for whom he has scored 151 goals in Serie A. "I had to make a decision between Roma and the national team and Roma will always be my priority," he said. Italy are second in the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying Group B, two points behind leaders France. The Azzurri will host Les Bleus in their next competitive match on September 8 and will visit fourth-placed Ukraine four days later.

[AlanAja]

Totti calls time on Italy career

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Francesco Totti has retired from international football (©Getty Images)


AS Roma captain Francesco Totti has announced his decision to quit international football at the age of 30 "for physical reasons, not technical ones", having previously decided to take an extended break from the Italy team after the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals.

Final word
At a press conference, the striker said he no longer felt he could play for both Roma and Italy but was keen to underline that this was not down to any problems he had with Roberto Donadoni's coaching. "The word 'end' is not a good one," he said. "However, I took this decision for physical reasons, not for technical ones." Last summer's World Cup final win against France will thus remain his final international appearance for the Azzurri.

Physical reasons
Totti made his international debut in a friendly game against Switzerland in 1998 and ended up scoring nine goals in 58 appearances in total. "I've been thinking about [retiring] since the end of the World Cup and I have decided to retire, but not to create problems for the squad and the new technical staff," he added. "I am really sorry but it is the right decision because my health is the most important thing for me."

Roma first
The striker, who won the ESM Golden Shoe last season after scoring 26 league goals as Roma finished second in Serie A and won the Coppa Italia, is ready to embark upon his 16th consecutive season with the capital club, for whom he has scored 151 goals in Serie A. "I had to make a decision between Roma and the national team and Roma will always be my priority," he said. Italy are second in the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying Group B, two points behind leaders France. The Azzurri will host Les Bleus in their next competitive match on September 8 and will visit fourth-placed Ukraine four days later.

wadoh akhirnya si Totti gantung sepatu untuk timnas.. jangan bersedih karean Italia masih punya Quagliarella.. beri banyak jam terbang maka New Totti akan kembali lahir !!!!.. Forza Milan !!!!

[asromaniac]

totti pensiun di italy.. sapa gantiin yah???????

[jeemack]

totti pensiun di italy.. sapa gantiin yah???????

Totti di Italy...? Memang agak2 rugi juga sih totti pensiun tapi rasa2nya ngga terlalu masalah tuh utk Italy kehilangan Totti saat ini, masalahnya selain udah lumayan berumur (31 thn) Totti juga banyak cedera akhir2 ini gw rasa seperti kata Bro Alan mudah2an si Quagrliarella bisa gantiin peran Totti di timnas....

Bukan gitu bro Alan....? ;)

[jeemack]

Mazzone Sayangkan Keputusan Totti


Keputusan Francesco Totti untuk mengundurkan diri dari tim nasional Italia sangat disayangkan Carlo Mazzone. Pelatih yang pernah memoles Totti itu menilai keputusan pensiun dari Azzurri sangat tidak tepat.

Mantan pelatih I Giallorossi itu menilai keputusan Totti untuk mundur dari tim nasional Italia sebagai keputusan tidak tepat. Bahkan, Mazzone sangat menyayangkan keputusan kapten kesebelasan Roma itu.

"Ini adalah keputusan terlalu berani dan Totti juga merasakan hal yang sama. Dia terlalu cepat mundur. Jika, dia mengontak saya sebelum mengambil keputusan itu, dia bakal tetap menjadi pemain Azzurri. Saya tidak akan mengizinkan dia meninggalkan tim nasional," tegas mantan pelatih berusia 70 tahun itu seperti dikutip Goal.

Sejak terakhir tampil memperkuat Italia di partai final Piala Dunia 2006 di Jerman, Totti tidak pernah lagi mengenakan kostum skuad 'Azzurri'. Saat itu, dia berkilah ingin istirahat dari tim nasional.

Tapi, awal pekan ini secara mengejutkan dia malah memutuskan untuk mengundurkan diri total dari tim nasional juara dunia empat kali itu. Alasan utama Totti untuk istirahat adalah karena dia merasa cedera engkel kaki kanannya belum pulih seratus persen.

Itu sebabnya Totti ingin absen dulu dari tim 'Giallorossi' Roma dan tim nasional. Dan begitu dia memutuskan mundur dari tim Azzurri, banyak orang yang kaget, karena usia Totti masih cukup produktif, 31 tahun.

Sebenarnya, Pelatih timnas Italia, Roberto Donadoni juga tidak mengharapkan Totti mundur terlalu cepat dari skuad. Pasalnya, Azzurri edang berjuang di babak kualifikasi Piala Eropa 2008. Tapi, Donadoni tidak bisa berbuat apa-apa dengan keputusan yang diambil sendiri oleh pemain berjuluk Il Pricinple itu.

[jeemack]

Donadoni : Hubungan Azzurri Dengan Totti Sudah Habis


Keputusan Franceco Totti out dari Gli Azzurri disambut dingin Roberto Donadoni. Pelatih Italia itu justru menyerang Il Capitano AS Roma itu.

“Bagaimana saya kehilangan pemain yang bahkan tidak pernah berada bersama kami. Hubungan kami dengan Totti sudah habis. Tidak ada lagi yang perlu kami bicarakan,” ketus Donadoni, seperti dilansir Channel 4, Sabtu (28/7/2007).

Untuk menggantikan Totti Donadoni kabarnya telah menyiapkan bomber Palermo Amauri. Pemain Brasil itu nampaknya akan ‘dipaksa’ untuk bergabung dengan Azzurri, menjadi warga negara Italia. Amauri pasalnya sudah bermain di berbagai klub di Italia selama tujuh tahun.

“Saya menyukai permainan Amauri dan tidak sabar untuk melihat aksinya di lapangan,” komentar pelatih terhadap pemain yang musim lalu harus absen di sisa musim akhir Serie A akibat dibekap cedera.

Selain ingin memasukan Amauri Donadoni juga mengakui akan merubah tiga beknya di belakang. Itu akan dilakukannya ketika timnya bertarung di laga krusial kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Prancis, dan Ukraina, September mendatang.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 01/08/2007
Nesta Ikuti Jejak Totti Mundur dari Azzurri


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ROMA – Timnas Italia harus bersiap kehilangan salah satu pemain andalannya lagi. Setelah Francesco Totti yang memutuskan untuk mundur dari Timnas Italia, giliran Alessandro Nesta yang mengikuti jejak rekannya itu. Adalah Presiden Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) Giancarlo Abete yang menmengumumkan hal itu. Giancarlo Abete mengungkapkan kalau Nesta akan segera membuat pernyataan mengenai masa depannya bersama tim Azzurri.
"Nesta akan membuat semacam pernyataan dan bayangan mengenai masa depannya bersama Azzurri untuk beberapa hari kedepan," ungkap Abete seusai megumumkan jadwal Serie A musim depan seperti dilansir Goal, Rabu (1/8/2007).
Tentu pengumuman ini sangat mengejutkan para fans setia Timnas Italia. Apalagi, sebelumnya Totti juga sudah menyatakan mundur dari Tim asuhan Roberto Donadoni tersebut.
Ini merupakan sebuah pukulan telak bagi Azzurri. Pasalnya, baik Nesta maupun Totti merupakan andalan di Timnas Italia. Terbukti, keduanya selalu bersama-sama membela juara Piala Dunia 2006 lalu itu, sejak Piala Eropa 1996.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 02 Agt 2007,
Nesta Susul Totti


MILAN - Satu persatu veteran Piala Dunia 2006 meninggalkan gelanggang internasional. Setelah bulan lalu Francesco Totti mengumumkan pengunduran dirinya dari skuad Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia), kemarin giliran Alessandro Nesta yang juga memutuskan pensiun dari timnas. Nesta memilih pensiun dari arena internasional, karena frustrasi dengan cedera yang terus melilitnya. Selanjutnya, seperti Totti, bek AC Milan ini akan mencurahkan sisa perjalanan karirnya di level klub.

"Saya tak akan bermain untuk tim nasional (Italia) lagi. Perjalananku bersama Azzurri berakhir sampai di sini," tutur Nesta pada acara jumpa pers yang dilangsungkan di fasilitas latihan AC Milan di Milanello kemarin.

"Saya sangat menyesal. Tapi, saya sudah tidak mungkin lagi bisa bermain untuk semua laga (kompetisi dan laga internasional). Kalau saya ingin berada di puncak permainan seperti dulu, saya harus beristirahat lama," ungkapnya.

Meski baru diputuskan kemarin, rencana itu sebetulnya sudah dipertimbangkan masak-masak oleh Nesta sejak beberapa bulan lalu. Bahkan, pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni sendiri, sempat menyatakan, kalau dirinya tak yakin Nesta bisa kembali membela Azzurri.

"Saya kehilangan beberapa laga internasional gara-gara cedera. Memang, masih memungkinkan bagiku untuk terus berkiprah di arena internasional. Tapi, kekecewaan mendalam harus saya rasakan pada Piala Dunia 2006 lalu. Tidak mudah melihat teman-temanku mengangkat trofi sementara saya hanya bisa duduk di pinggir lapangan karena cedera," sambungnya.

Bek berusia 31 tahun yang mengantongi 78 caps untuk Azzurri itu, sudah tampil pada tiga edisi Piala Dunia. Termasuk edisi terakhir Piala Dunia di Jerman tahun kemarin. Saat Italia menundukkan Prancis di final, Nesta terpaksa duduk di bangku cadangan karena cedera otot paha.

Nah, setelah Piala Dunia 2006, Nesta hanya sekali memperoleh kesempatan tampil untuk Azzurri. Yaitu, saat Donadoni dan pasukannya menundukkan Georgia 3-1 pada lanjutan kualifikasi Grup B menuju Euro 2008, Oktober tahun lalu. Setelah itu, Nesta tak tampil ketika Italia menghadapi Kepulauan Faroe dan Lithuania.

Saat itu, Nesta meminta Donadoni tak memasukkan namanya karena dia hendak menikah. Tapi, setelah pesta pernikahan, Nesta tak pernah lagi nongol di kamp latihan Azzurri. Hari-harinya lebih sering disibukkan pada urusan pemulihan cedera. Faktor cedera pula yang membuat Nesta sepanjang musim lalu jarang membela Milan. Dengan mundurnya Nesta, praktis hanya tinggal Fabio Cannavaro dan Marco Materazzi bek senior yang dimiliki Italia.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 02/08/2007
Riva Dukung Langkah Totti, dan Nesta


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MILAN – Keputusan Francesco Totti, dan Alessandro Nesta meninggalkan Gli Azzuri mendapatkan dukungan. Legenda sepakbola Italia Gigi Riva membela keputusan mantan dua pilar Negeri Pizza tersebut untuk meninggalkan Timnas.
“Saya sangat mengerti dengan keputusan yang diambil keduanya. Saya tahu apa yang dipikirkan seorang pemain yang dibekap cedera. Tidak ada pemain yang terus menerus membela negaranya. Fans Italia harus belajar menerima hal itu,” tegas Riva, seperti dilansir Channel 4, Kamis (2/8/2007).

Totti secara kontroversial memutuskan untuk meninggalkan rekan-rekannya di Timnas Italia. Langkahnya itu diikutip bek AC Milan, Alessandro Nesta. Nesta yang sudah bermain di 78 laga sudah lama dibekap cedera. Terakhir dia membela panji Azzurri pada Oktober 2006.

Nesta sudah cukup bermain buat Italia. Cedera mengharuskannya melakukan hal itu,” jelasnya.
Roberto Donadoni akan membawa pasukannya, bertarung di ajang kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Prancis, dan Ukraina, September mendatang.

[basketmen]

hmm kok berita mulu ya

itali emang udah pada tua2 pemainnya

[Ethuang]

Jumat, 03 Agt 2007,
Donadoni Legawa Nesta Pensiun


ROMA - Keputusan Alessandro Nesta yang mundur dari Tim Nasional Italia diterima dengan lapang hati oleh Roberto Donadoni. Allenatore (pelatih) Azzurri (julukan timnas Italia) itu mengaku bisa menerima alasan defender klub AC Milan tersebut yang menyatakan mundur karena frustrasi dengan cederanya. "Alasan yang disampaikan Nesta masuk akal," kata Donadoni seperti yang dilansir Goal.

Ini kali kedua Donadoni ditinggal pilar penting Azzurri sejak menggantikan posisi Marcello Lippi. Sebelumnya, Donadoni harus menerima kenyataan mundurnya kapten AS Roma Francesco Totti yang terlebih dahulu memutuskan pensiun dari Azzurri.

Keputusan Nesta untuk menanggalkan kaus Azzurri sudah dipertimbangkan secara matang sejak beberapa bulan lalu. Bahkan, Donadoni sendiri, sempat menyatakan, kalau dirinya tak yakin Nesta bisa kembali membela Azzurri. "Keputusan Nesta adalah pilihannya dan semua pihak harus menghormatinya," kata Donadoni.

Donadoni, mantan bintang AC Milan, itu enggan mengomentari mengenai kemungkinan Nesta kembali ke timnas jika pulih dari cederanya. Yang jelas, pada jangka pendek Nesta tak mungkin masuk timnas. "Kita lihat saja untuk ke depan. Semua juga bergantung performa sang pemain," tegasnya.

Bek yang telah mengantongi 78 caps untuk Azzurri itu, sudah tampil pada tiga edisi Piala Dunia. Termasuk saat membawa Italia menjuarai Piala Dunia 2006 di Jerman. Kala itu, Italia menundukkan Prancis di final. Nesta terpaksa duduk di bangku cadangan karena cedera otot paha. Nah, setelah Piala Dunia 2006, Nesta hanya sekali memperoleh kesempatan tampil untuk Azzurri. Yaitu, saat Donadoni dan pasukannya menundukkan Georgia 3-1 pada lanjutan kualifikasi Grup B menuju Euro 2008, Oktober tahun lalu.

Setelah itu, Nesta tidak tampil ketika Italia menghadapi Kepulauan Faroe dan Lithuania. Dia meminta Donadoni tak memasukkan namanya karena akan menikah. Tapi, setelah pesta pernikahan, Nesta tak pernah lagi nongol di kamp latihan Azzurri. Hari-hari Nesta lebih sering disibukkan pada urusan pemulihan cedera. Faktor cedera pula yang membuat Nesta sepanjang musim lalu jarang membela Milan.

[jeemack]

hmm kok berita mulu ya

itali emang udah pada tua2 pemainnya


Iya nih kayanya perlu penyegaran supaya yg agak2 muda diberi kesempatan... ;);)

[Ethuang]

Gattusso: Tutup Mulut Anda Domenech !


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MILAN – Serangan pelatih Prancis Raymond Domenech yang menyebutkan Italia sebagai biang keladi pengaturan skor di Euro 2008 ditentang Rino Gattusso. Gelandang AC Milan itu justru meminta Domenech untuk menutup mulutnya. Domenech mengatakan di Le Parisien jika Italia bermasalah dengan para wasit di Euro 2008. Kecaman pelatih yang meloloskan Le Bleus ke final Piala Dunia 2006 itu semakin menjauh dengan menyebutkan jika Italia terkenal dengan skandal pengaturan skor yang dilakukannya pada kualifikasi ajang Olimpiade Sydney 2000 yang melibatkan skuad U-21 mereka.
“Saya berada di Taranto waktu itu. Saya ingin mengatakan kepada Domenech untuk menutup mulutnya. Ketika itu kedua tim bertarung habis-habisan dan Prancis bisa saja menang,” ketus Gattusso, seperti dikutip Channel 4, Jumat (10/8/2007).
Gelandang yang terkenal tidak pernah menyerah kala bermain justru meminta jika laga antara Italia versus Prancis diulang. “Jika memang Domenech mau kami ingin melakukan rematch untuk melihat apakah wasit memang korupsi atau tidak. Saya tidak mengerti kenapa dia mengatakan hal bodoh seperti ini,” jelasnya.
Beruntung hanya Gattusso yang mengeluarkan komentar balik. Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) sengaja tidak mau memanaskan situasi. Tapi Presiden UEFA Michel Platini telah mengancam jika Domenech tidak bisa membuktikan ucapannya maka sanksi justru akan diberikan kepadanya.
“Ini semua menyedihkan saya. Domenech tahu jika pertandingan antara Italia melawan Prancis adalah laga yang krusial tapi justru mengangkat masalah ini ke arah kontroversi. Kenapa dia tidak mengatakan hal ini dari dulu,” kecam manajer Azzurri dan eks bomber Italia Gigi Riva.

[Ethuang]

Sabtu, 11/08/2007
FFF Minta Maaf Kepada Azzurri


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PARIS– Federasi Sepakbola Prancis (FFF) meminta maaf atas perkataan Raymond Domenech yang menuduh Italia sebagai biang keladi pengaturan skor di ajang Olimpiade Sydney 2000.
Domenech melontarkan pernyataan kontroversialnya di koran Le Parisien. Menurutnya Pengaturan skandal telah dilakukan U-21 Gli Azzurri pada laga kualifikasi melawan Prancis di Negeri Kanguru, Australia.

Secara Pribadi Presiden FFF Jean Pierre Escalettes menelpon Presiden FIGC Giancarlo Abete dan meminta maaf.

“Perkataan Domenech adalah pernyataan yang keluar dari opininya sendiri. Saya optimis laga di San Siro akan berlangsung dalam suasana yang hangat,” ungkap Presiden FFF Jean Pierre Escalettes, seperti dikutip Channel 4, Sabtu (11/8/2007).

Pernyataan Domenech ditakutkan banyak kalangan akan menimbulkan bentrokan diantara kedua fans negara. Tapi Escalette prihatin dengan pernyataan Presiden UEFA Michel Platini yang ingin memberikan sanksi kepada Domenech jika tidak bisa membuktikan ucapannya.

Meski Domenech sudah dianggap biang keladi masalah ini tapi FFF tidak ingin memejahijaukan pelatih berbintang Cancer tersebut.

[Ethuang]

Sabtu, 11/08/2007
Tudingan Domenech Kembali Menuai Kecaman


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ROMA – Tudingan Raymond Domenech mengenai skandal pengaturan skor yang melibatkan skuad Italia kembali menuai kecaman. Setelah Genaro Gattuso, giliran Marco Tardelli yang geram terhadap sikap Domenech itu. Sebelumnya dalam interview dengan koran Prancis, Le Parisien, pekan ini, Domenech menyinggung bahwa ‘wasit bisa dibeli’, terutama saat partai seri antara Prancis dan Italia U-21 pada 1999. Domenech adalah Pelatih Prancis saat itu.
Tardelli sendiri merupakan pelatih timnas U-21 Italia saat mengalahkan Prancis, 2-1, pada duel play-off memperebutkan tiket ke Olimpiade Sydney 2000.
Dia menilai kemenangan itu murni karena keunggulan skuad asuhannya, dan bukan karena bantuan wasit seperti yang dituduhkan Domenech yang kini jadi pelatih timnas senior Prancis.
"Setiap orang sudah tahu sekarang siapa Domenech yang telah melontarkan pernyataan benar-benar bodoh. Itulah yang dia sukai dan sekali lagi ia mencoba memprovokasi tim lawan. Dia sering melakukan tindakan begini," ungkap pria berusia 53 tahun itu
Wasit yang memimpin pertandingan itu adalah Cardoso Cortez. Dalam pertandingan itu sempat terjadi keributan setelah Christian Bassila menjegal Roberto Baronio saat bola sudah tidak ada di dekat mereka. Insiden itu kemudian membuahkan hukuman tendangan bebas yang dimanfaatkan Italia buat membobol gawang Prancis.

"Ada dua pertandingan dalam play-off waktu itu. Jadi, jika benar kami curang, kami harus membeli wasit juga dalam pertandingan pertama di kandang Prancis," ujar mantan pemain Inter Milan itu sambil menyindir Domenech.

Pada babak kualifikasi Euro 2008 mendatang Les Blues kembali akan bentrok dengan Gil Azzurri di San Siro. Mungkin Domenech takut kalau Italia akan kembali akan diuntungkan oleh wasit karena menjadi tuan rumah.
"Mungkin Domenech sedang mempersiapkan diri buat jatuh ke tanah jika Prancis kalah dalam laga melawan Italia di San Siro bulan depan. Itu sepertinya hampir jadi petunjuk buat menjawab tuduhan dia," paparnya.

[jeemack]

THE NATIONAL TEAM RETURNS TO GENOA FOR THE QUALIFYING MATCH AGAINST GEORGIA


Rome 08-2007

The UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying match between Italy ad Georgia will be held on Saturday, October 13th at the "Luigi Ferraris" stadium in Genoa. The Azzurri return to Genoa three years after a friendly match played against Spain when Roberto Baggio made his last official appearance with the National team.

[jeemack]

Italy choose Milan for France visit


http://www.uefa.com/multimediafiles/photo/competitions/ucl/505488_mediumsquare.jpg (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:void%280%29;)
The Giuseppe Meazza in Milan
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced today that the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against France on 8 September will be staged at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan.

France on top
"The game against France will be played at the San Siro," said FIGC president Giancarlo Abete after a meeting in Rome. Italy are second in Group B with 16 points, two behind a France team who defeated the Azzurri 3-1 last September in the first repeat of the 2006 FIFA World Cup final. Italy will travel to Ukraine four days later, when Les Bleus entertain third-placed Scotland.EURO 2008: "MEAZZA" STADIUM SOLD OUT
FOR ITALY-FRANCE ON SEPTEMBER 8TH


Rome 09/08/2007

The stadium in Milan will be a sold out one for the Euro 2008 qualifying match between Italy and France on September 8th. Tickets sold out immediately: in less than one week the "Giuseppe Meazza" stadium was full.

Interest was shown as soon as tickets went on sale. On the first day, in fact, 25,000 tickets were sold. The FIGC gave the French federation five-thousand tickets and even these sold: France said that this was the first time all tickets for an away match had been sold.

[jeemack]

Azzurri Set Up South Africa Friendly

The FIGC have announced that a friendly has been set up between the Italian national team and World Cup hosts South Africa.


The test match will likely be played in Italy and Azzurri coach Roberto Donadoni will be looking for his first friendly win since taking charge of the World Champions after losing his debut 2-0 to Croatia and drawing 1-1 with Turkey.
At least the pressure on his shoulders has eased off significantly thanks to five straight wins in the Euro 2008 qualifiers, putting Italy second in Group B behind their WC 2006 final opponents France.


NATIONAL TEAM: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17TH
FRIENDLY MATCH BETWEEN ITALY AND S. AFRICA

Rome, 08/08/2007


On Wednesday, October 17th, Italy will play a friendly match against the national team of South Africa, taking advantage of an available date on the FIFC calendar.

The Azzurri will play this match after playing the Euro 2008 qualifying match against Georgia, scheduled on October 13th, in Genoa.

[jeemack]

National Team

SATURDAY, THE 18TH, AZZURRI FOR THE FRIENDLY MATCH AGAINST HUNGARY PLAYERS MEET ON THE 20TH IN MILAN

Rome 09/08/2007

On Saturday, the 18th, the head coach of the National Italian team, Roberto Donadoni, will release the names of the players who will participate in the away match in Budapest, where on Wednesday, August 22nd, Italy will play a friendly match against Hungary (8:50 pm).

The Azzurri will meet on Monday, the 20th, at 12:00 pm in Milan, and then in the afternoon they will have a practice session in the afternoon at the "Meazza" stadium (6:00 pm) followed by a press conference with the coach and players.

The National team will leave the next day for Budapest with a practice session in the afternoon at the " Ferenc Puskas" stadium (6:00 pm).

Here is the training and press conference schedule:

Monday August 20
12.00 Players meet at the Hotel Brun in Milan
17.00 Press conference at the Stadium (head coach + players)
18.00 Practice session

Tuesday 21 August
Charter flight for Budapest in the morning
18.00 Practice session at the " Ferenc Puskas" stadium in
Budapest
Press conference follows

Wednesday 22 August
20.50 Match Hungary / Italy
Press conference follows and team returns with
Charter flight for Milan Malpensa / Rome Fiumicino

[jeemack]

THE NATIONAL TEAM RETURNS TO GENOA FOR THE QUALIFYING MATCH AGAINST GEORGIA


Rome 08-2007

The UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying match between Italy ad Georgia will be held on Saturday, October 13th at the "Luigi Ferraris" stadium in Genoa. The Azzurri return to Genoa three years after a friendly match played against Spain when Roberto Baggio made his last official appearance with the National team.

Genoa to stage Italy-Georgia

Friday 3 August 2007

The Italian Football Federation has announced that Italy's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier against Georgia on 13 October will be played at the Luigi Ferraris stadium in Genoa.

Genoa return
The last time the Azzurri played in Genoa was in 2004, a friendly game against Spain and farewell match for former Italy forward Roberto Baggio. Italy are currently second in Group B, two points behind France, and will host Les Bleus in Milan on 8 September before travelling to Ukraine four days later.

©uefa.com 1998-2007. All rights reserved.

[Ethuang]

Senin, 13 Agt 2007,
Ekspor Pemain Untungkan Azzurri


ROMA - Ketika Marcello Lippi masih menjabat sebagai arsitek Tim Nasional Italia, dia tak pernah kesulitan memanggil pemain untuk mengikuti pemusatan latihan. Pasalnya, di era Lippi, mayoritas pemain yang jadi langganan timnas bermain di klub-klub lokal Serie A. Roberto Donadoni yang menggantikan Lippi, musim lalu juga tak kesulitan mengumpulkan pemain untuk pelatnas. Nah, kesulitan mulai dirasakan Donadoni pada musim ini. Pasalnya, beberapa pemain yang menjadi langganan Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia), kini bermain di luar klub Serie A. Karena banyak pemain di luar Italia, Donadoni harus siap melakukan tur Eropa untuk memantau perkembangan para pemain "ekspor" tadi.

"Saya akan terus memantau siapapun pemain yang masuk rencana timnas. Ini memang di luar kebiasaan. Tapi, dibandingkan saya, pelatih Timnas Brazil dan Argentina, menghadapi masalah yang lebih rumit,"papar Donadoni kepada Channel4.

Setidaknya ada enam pemain proyeksi timnas yang kini membela klub luar negeri. Mereka adalah Luca Toni (Bayern Munchen), Cristiano Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Rolando Bianchi (Manchester City), Giuseppe Rossi (Villarrreal), Graziano Pellè (AZ Alkmaar) dan Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyon). Dari enam pemain tadi, Toni dan Bianchi menunjukkan penampilan menawan dalam debutnya bersama klub yang mereka bela. Fakta ini membuat Donadoni semakin percaya, kalau ekspor pemain ke luar negeri justru banyak memberikan keuntungan buat Azzurri.

""Toni menunjukkan bahwa dia adalah seorang pembunuh,"ujar Donadoni setelah menyaksikan kemenangan 3-0 yang dipetik Bayern Munchen atas Hansa Rostock, dimana Toni menyumbang satu gol.

"Selain gol, sisi positif yang saya lihat dari penampilannya adalah, kondisi fisik yang masih prima, meski dia didera problem kebugaran selama pramusim. Toni membuktikan kalau dia bisa segera memulihkan kondisi, dan sekarang kondisinya semakin membaik,"tuturnya.

Soal Bianchi, Donadoni melihat penampilan bomber Timnas U-21 Italia itu semakin matang. "Pemain-pemain berbakat kami akan menjadi pilar di klubnya. Sekarang, kami masih menunggu gol-gol dari Giuseppe Rossi, Cristiano Lucarelli Pelle,"tukasnya.

[Ethuang]

Senin, 13/08/2007
Penampilan Toni Menggembirakan Donadoni


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MUNICH - Luca Toni bisa merayakan gol kembali dengan membentangkan tangannya di dekat telinga. Bukan hanya dia yang gembira, Pelatih Italia, Roberto Donadoni juga. Gol di menit 14 lewat set up Miroslav Klose, membuat start sempurna Toni sekembalinya dari cedera kaki. Mantan pemain Fiorentina itu sangat gembira.
"Saya rindu merayakan gol kembali seperti itu. Saya berharap melakukannya berulang kali," ujarnya kepada Gazzetta dello Sport. "Saya absen sebulan, dan hanya berlatih sejak Kamis (9/8/2007) lalu. Pelatih nyaris tak memainkan saya."
“Semakin banyak bermain, saya akan semakin bugar. Ini hanya awal,” janji Toni.
Toni mengaku sangat gembira dengan tandemnya Klose. Pasalnya, striker tajam Jerman itu tak egois. Dia juga sangat berterima kasih kepada fans Italia yang terus mendukungnya, meski dia pindah ke Jerman.
"Saya punya rapor bagus dengan Miroslav Klose. Kami berdua sama tak egois di kotak penalti, sehingga kami bisa menjalin kombinasi dengan baik. Saya berada di sini untuk menang," tandas Toni.
Nun jauh di Italia, Pelatih Roberto Donadoni mennati dengan penuh harap kembalinya anak asuhnya itu. Pasalnya, Italia masih akan menjalani laga berat di kualifikasi Euro 2008. Donadoni tak ragu dengan kebugaran Toni.

[Ethuang]

Minggu, 19/08/2007
Lawan Hongaria, Italia Panggil Curci


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MILAN – Pelatih Italia, Roberto Donadoni untuk kali pertama memanggil kiper AS Roma, Gianluca Curci. Tenaga Curci dibutuhkan dalam laga friendly melawan Hongaria, Rabu (29/8/2007). Pemain berusia 22 tahun itu masih berebut posisi kiper utama di Roma dengan kiper Brasil, Doni. Tapi, pemanggilan ini jadi langkah maju mantan kiper Italia U-21.
Rekan setimnya, gelandang Alberto Aquilani juga akan memulai debut di Tim Gli Azzurri. Demikian pula pemain Sampdoria, Angelo Palombo yang akan menggantikan posisi Daniele De Rossi.
Donadoni sempat pusing tanpa diperkuat duet yang pensiun: Francesco Totti dan Alessandro Nesta. Bahkan, dia sempat meminta Serie A agar ditunda sepekan lagi, tapi ditolak FIGC.
Juara Dunia ini sementara berada di posisi runner up kualifikasi Euro 2008 Grup B. Italia akan menjamu pimpinan klasemen, Prancis di Milan, 8 September.

[Ethuang]

SKUAD ITALIA YANG DISIAPKAN



Kiper: Marco Amelia (Livorno), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Gianluca Curci (AS Roma)
Belakang: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan), Massimo Oddo (AC Milan), Cristian Zaccardo (Palermo), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona)
Tengah: Massimo Ambrosini (AC Milan), Alberto Aquilani (AS Roma), Aimo Diana (Palermo), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)
Depan: Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Filippo Inzaghi (AC Milan), Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Luca Toni (Bayern Munich).

[doyantoket]

The truth comes out

Materazzi reveals insult of Zidane at 2006 World Cup



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Zinedine Zidane knocked Marco Materazzi flat after the Italian insulted his sister during last year's World Cup final.



Italy defender Marco Materazzi finally disclosed what he said to Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final that provoked the French star to retaliate with a head-butt.
"I prefer the whore that is your sister," Materazzi wrote in his yet-to-be-released autobiography, according to Italian news reports Saturday.
Italian magazine TV Sorrisi E Canzoni reported the insult in an interview with Materazzi, which comes out Monday. Materazzi, however, told ANSA news agency the words were not part of the interview.
"Rather they are from page 21 of my autobiography," Materazzi said Saturday. "I will speak about the book at length but only on Aug. 30, the day set aside for its presentation in Milan."
Zidane head-butted Materazzi in the chest with 10 minutes left in last year's final. He was sent off for violent conduct, ending his stellar career with a red card. Italy went on to win the game in a penalty-kick shootout after the score was 1-1 after extra time.
Materazzi, who received a two-game ban for incitement, has since apologized to Zidane. France coach Raymond Domenech this month lauded Materazzi's strategy for getting Zidane out of the game.
"I say 'bravo' to him," the coach said.

[chenko]

Forza d' itAliano;););););););)

[Ethuang]

Senin, 20 Agt 2007,
Lippi Bela Matrix


ROMA - Pengakuan dosa Marco Materazzi atas insiden tandukan Zinedine Zidane di final Piala Dunia lalu mengundang simpati Marcello Lippi. Pelatih yang menukangi Timnas Italia saat merebut Piala Dunia 2006 itu, memberikan dukungan atas tindakan yang diambil Matrix -sapaan akrab Materazzi. Menurut Lippi, terlalu banyak kepentingan bicara dalam insiden tersebut, sehingga mengalahkan cerita sukses Italia di Piala Dunia yang berlangsung di Jerman itu.

"Hampir saja lebih banyak yang membicarakan insiden tandukan kepala daripada kemenangan Italia di Piala Dunia,"papar Lippi kepada Channel4.

" Dalam tiap kasus, tak masalah apa yang sudah dikatakan. Bagaimanapun, pengakuannya tetap tak dapat membenarkan reaksi yang dibuat oleh Zidane,"tambah Lippi.

Sebelumnya, Matrix telah membuat pengakuan kalau dia memang menghina dan memprovokasi Zidane selama pertandingan. Provokasi itulah yang membuat Zidane kalap dan kemudian terjadilan insiden yang membuat akhir karir mantan bintang Juventus dan Real Madrid itu tercoreng.

"Saat itu, Zizou (panggilan Zidane) bilang, jika kamu benar-benar ingin kaos saya, kamu bisa memilikinya usai pertandingan. Tapi saya meresponnya dengan bilang "saya lebih suka memiliki saudara perempuanmu yang pelacur itu," kata Materazzi seperti dikutip Goal.

[Ethuang]

Penghinaan Matrix Terhadap Zidane Terungkap


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MILAN – Penghinaaan Marco ‘Matrix’ Materazzi, terhadap Zinedine ‘Zizou’ Zidane pada final Piala Dunia, saat Italia melawan Prancis lalu mulai terungkap. Matrix mengaku kalau dirinya mengeluarkan ucapan berbau hinaan terhadap adik kandung Zizou. Sebelumnya, beberapa media lokal memang sempat memberitakan kalau Matrix mengeluarkan perkataan berbau rasis mengenai keluarga Zizou, dan pemain timnas Italia itu pun mengakuinya.
Dalam penuturannya kepada TV Sorrisi e Canzoni, insiden itu bermula ketika Zizou mulai melakukan protes terhadap wasit, karena Matrix terus memegangi kostumnya.
Tak tahan dengan perbuatan bek yang bernaung di Inter Milan itu, celetukan Zizou pun mulai keluar. “Kalau mau kostum saya nanti saja setelah pertandingan,” celetuk pria yang sudah mundur dari sepakbola itu.
Kaget mendengar celetukan Zizou, Matrix pun seraya menjawab dengan nada berbau rasis.”Lebih baik saya memilih adikmu yang pelacur,” jawab pemain berusia 33 tahun itu.
Praktis, hinaan Matrix itu membuat emosi Zizou menjadi naik pitam, secara reflex dia membalikkan badan dan menyundulkan kepalanya ke dada Matrix. Alhasil, akibat tindakannya itu, Zidane terpaksa mendapakan kartu merah dari wasit dan Pracis kalah dari Italia lewat adu penalti.
Setelah kejadian itu, Matrix pun meminta maaf kepada Zizou dan mengaku kalau dirinya bersalah telah menghina keluarganya.
“Saya akui, kalau ketika itu saya telah berbuat kesalahan yang sangat fatal,” ungkap Matrix.

[Ethuang]

Selasa, 21/08/2007
Laga Uji Coba
Toni Senang Dipanggil oleh Azzurri


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MUNICH – Penampilan gemilang Luca Toni bersama Bayern Munich terbayar lunas. Pasalnya, Toni dipanggil oleh Pelatih Roberto Donadoni untuk memperkuat Timnas Italia pada laga melawan Hungaria 22 Agustus mendatang. Rupanya, keputusan mantan bomber Palermo itu untuk meninggalkan Fiorentina dan bergabung dengan Bayern tidak sia-sia.
Apalagi, sebelumnya banyak orang yang mengira kalau kepindahan Toni itu akan membuat dirinya menjadi tidak terpantau oleh Donadoni.
Namun perkiraan itu nampaknya salah. Terbukti, dua penampilan gemilang Toni bersama FC Hollywood –julukan Bayern- di Bundesliga membuat Donadoni memutuskan untuk memanggil bomber bertubuh jangkung itu guna memperkuat Azzurri saat menghadapi Hungaria, dalam laga persahabatan 22 Agustus mendatang
“Saya sangat senang bisa kembali memperkuat tim nasional. Saya tidak takut untuk bersaing dengan pemain yang lebih muda. Untuk itu, saya akan mencoba bermain gemilang sehingga saya dipilih oleh Donadoni,” ungkap pemaib berusia 30 tahun itu kepada Sky Sport Italia.
Pada dua pertandingan awal Toni menunjukkan penampilan gemilangnya bersama Bayern. Terbukti, pada dua pertandingan itu pemain yang memiliki nama lengkap Luca Toni Varchetta itu langsung mencetak dua gol.
“Saya memulai pertandingan saya bersama Bayern dengan gemilang. Namun, penampilan gemilang saya ini, tidak akan terjadi bila pemain lain tidak mendukung saya. Saya juga beruntung bisa mencetak gol sebanyak dua kali,” lanjut pemain yang kini menjadi pujaan baru fans Bayern itu.
Setiap pemuja Serie A, tentu sangat menyayangkan keputusan Toni untuk hengkang ke Bundesliga.
“Kenapa kami memutuskan untuk hengkang? Seharusnya, hal itu kalian tanyakan kepada pihak klub. Bahkan, saya takut kalau pemain muda yang lainnya akan mengikuti jejak saya untuk bermain diluar negeri,” tegas pemain yang sudah membela Azzurri sebanyak 27 kali itu.

[jeemack]

DONADONI: "FOR ME ITALY-FRANCE HAS NOT YET BEGUN I AM THINKING ABOUT HUNGARY"


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Rome 21/08/2007

In the first day of training in Milan, in light of the friendly match on Wednesday against Hungary, talks are about Italy-France and the absent players. These are the two topics of discussion as the Azzurri prepare in light of the two European qualifying matches scheduled in September. Head coach Donadoni has no problems responding to the questions, clearing the field of any type of controvery, especially as far as the match against France is concerned: "If the match has already begun, it has begun only for them, not for me. And if they are a little nervous, it is their problem. I have other things to think about, like the match against Hungary. I do not have to give any answers to Domenech. My thoughts are on the field, all the rest is choreography and business".


And with regards to the absent players: "De Rossi played his first match yesterday, and all the other players who were not called, like Perrotta and Camoranesi, were not called because they are not yet in good athletic condition. Gilardino? He knows why he is not here, he is still recovering from an injury".


Another name, Antonio Cassano, is called to the attention of the head coach: "I did not call Cassano, but I was happy to hear from him. This means that he wants to create a good relationship with me. I am happy that he has come to Italy and I hope that we will see the best of him. His being on the National team for the European Championships depends only on him".
The head coach opens the door to the national team for Cassano, but also gives a warning: "I hope that this is when he finally shows what he is worth and he has realized that time is passing for him, too".


Two goals in two matches with Bayern Monaco, Luca Toni is back on the national team: "I am happy to be back in Italy. I arrived yesterday and I went to see my parents. Now I am here and I am happy to be on the National team".


The star forward was afraid that his relationship with the national team could have been influenced by his move to Germany: "I was not afraid because I knew the coach would be following up on me. So I will try to do my best, score goals and then we will see: there has always been competition on the team because there are a lot of good forwards in Italy. Many are forced to go abroad including a lot of young players that important clubs could have invested in".

[jeemack]

TOMORROW IN BUDAPEST HUNGARY-ITALY LAST TEST BEFORE QUALIFYING MATCHES


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Rome 21/08/2007

The National team arrived in Budapest just a little after 12:00 pm for the friendly match that is scheduled for tomorrow evening against Hungary. This match will be the last match before the euro 2008 qualifying matches against France and Ukraine. The Azzurri will be back on the field a little more than two months after the wins in the two away matches against Far Oer Islands and Lithuania.

Hungary and France have played against each other 33 times, in both friendly and official matches. Italy won 16 and Hungary 8, with 9 draws. Italy has played in Hungary 14 times: 5 wins, 5 draws, 4 losses. Hungary has not won since 1965: 2-1 in a friendly match in Budapest, with goals by Albert and Bene for Hungary after Mazzola tied the score in the match that marked the debut of Gigi Riva.

The Hungarian capital has fall weather with rain and a temperature of around 20 degrees celsius.

The Azzurri reached the hotel by bus and in the afternoon they will practice at the Puskas stadium at 6:00 pm.

[jeemack]

Donadoni : Masa Bodoh Dengan Domenech!

Selasa, 21 Aug 2007, 16:23


Arsitek Italia Roberto Donadoni menolak untuk masuk ke dalam perang urat syaraf yang dimulai oleh pelatih Prancis Raymond Domenech menjelang pertemuan kedua tim di laga kualifikasi EURO 2008.

Domenech juga mengecam perkataan Domenech yang menuduh banyaknya kecurangan di dalam sepakbola Italia dan wasit yang terkesan membela timnas Italia U-21 saat bertemu dengan Prancis U-21 di tahun 2000.

Akan tetapi, Donadoni mengatakan timnya tidak akan kehilangan konsentrasi menjelang pertemuan kedua tim di San Siro.

"Pikiran saya hanya kepada lapangan serta laga persahabatan melawan Hungaria. Saya tidak perlu merespon Domenech," ujar Donadoni.

Pertandingan nanti dipastikan akan menjanjikan sebuah luapan emosional setelah pertemuan terakhir di final Piala Dunia 2006 yang meninggalkan banyak kenangan, terutama tandukkan Zinedine Zidane terhadap Marco Materazzi.

"Saya tersenyum manakala insiden tersebut masih saja dibicarakan setelah satu tahun berlalu. Apa yang saya pikirkan tentang perkataan Marco kepadanya? Anda harus menunggu bukunya!" tambahnya.

Donadoni juga mengatakan senang dengan keputusan Antonio Cassano yang hijrah ke Sampdoria setelah menjalani musim yang mengecewakan di Real Madrid.

[Ethuang]

Commentator Capello Looks Ahead To Hungary-Italy


Fabio Capello was unceremoniously dumped by Real Madrid this summer despite leading Los Merengues to the title. For now, he's taken up a commentating position with Italian broadcaster RAI. Today he offered his thoughts on the tasks of a good match announcer, no to mention some aspects of Italian football...

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Fabio Capello will work alongside Marco Civoli tomorrow night as the pair prepare to commentate on Italy's friendly match in Hungary.

For all Don Capello's footballing expertise, he says that he understands that the role of the commentator is not simply to judge, but to enlighten.

He said, "I'll be critical only when necessary - why be so otherwise?

"But I'm mostly going to be watching the issues of the team. The just commentator is objective and doesn't hold back, but needs to specify and explain any errors that he sees, to help the spectators who cannot see it."

He admitted that he will be "supporting Italy all the way", however, even if he is to cast a discerning eye over the "many new players" that are taking the spots vacated by some of the World Champions.

On that subject, he had few words to say for Francesco Totti and Alessandro Nesta, both recently retired from international football.

"If any player feels that it's not good for him to wear the national team shirt, it's better that they aren't there," he concluded.

Looking ahead to the match itself, the veteran manager saw it as a stepping stone for the must-win clash against France in the European Championship - and an invaluable one since the domestic season has started so late.

Capello said, "It'll be important to us because the French players have played more than us; [Italy coach] Donadoni isn't happy about this because of the dates of our championship [which starts this weekend.]

"The French players have already had four league matches, and they have two friendly games before playing us. We have less. From experience, I know that not having 'minutes in your legs' is a real problem."

France face Italy in the European Championship qualifiers on September 8th at Capello's old stomping ground, the San Siro.

In the first qualifying meeting between the sides in Paris, France ran out 3-1 winners, just days after Italy's disastrous 1-1 draw in Lithuania.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 22/08/2007
Tujuan Luca Toni Adalah Mencetak Gol


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MILAN – Mencetak gol adalah hal yang utama bagi Luca Toni. Bomber anyar Bayern Munich itu berharap mengisi halaman depan setiap media massa Italia setelah membawa Gli Azzurri menang atas Hongaria pada laga persahabatan yang akan digelar Kamis (23/8/2007).
Hilangnya kapten AS Roma Francesco Totti dalam skuad Roberto Mancini menjadi beban buat Toni. Dia akan menjadi tulang punggung timnya di depan untuk mendobrak pertahanan setiap lawan Italia yang akan dihadapi.

“Saya senang bisa bergabung dengan Timnas Italia. Tujuan saya adalah terus bermain dan mencetak gol,” cetus Toni, seperti dilansir Ticker, Rabu (23/8/2007).

Toni harus membuktikan kata-katanya. Pasalnya dia akan menemani timnya berlaga melawan salah satu musuh bebuyutan Italia, Prancis 8 September mendatang. Pada laga kualifikasi Euro 2008 itu tambahan tiga poin akan menjadi poin penting buat Mancini untuk terus mengamankan posisi atau menggusur Le Bleus di Grup B, dan lolos ke Swiss dan Austria.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 23/08/2007
Laga Uji Coba
Italia Tumbang


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BUDAPEST - Penampilan mengecewakan diperlihatkan oleh Italia saat melawan Hungaria. Alhasil, Gil Azzurri pun dibekuk oleh Hungaria dengan skor 3-1, dalam laga uji coba di Budapest, Kamis (23/8/2007) dini hari WIB.
Hasil ini tentu sangat mengecewakan bagi Pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni. Apalagi, Doanadoni menjadikan pertandingan ini sebagai persiapan mereka menjelang partai babak kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Prancis, pada 8 September mendatang.
Pertandingan menarik terlihat dibabak kedua, dimana keempat gol itu tercipta. Sebenarnya, Fabio Cannavaro dan kawan-kawan sempat unggul 1-0 atas hungaria pada menit ke-49 lewat gol Antonio Di Natale.
Gol tercipta setelah, penyerang Udinese tersebut memanfaatkan blunder yang dibuat oleh kiper Hungaria yang kini merumput di Leicester City, Marton Fulop. Sayang, gol itu justru membuat permaian Italia menjadi kehilangan ritme.
Alhasil pada menit ke-62, Hungaria mampu menyamakan kedudukan melalui defender Roland Juhasz, setelah tendangan kerasnya dari jarak 14 meter menghujam gawang Italia yang dikawal kiper Gianluigi Buffon.
Empat menit kemudian, Hungaria memperoleh titik penalti setelah Cannavaro menjatihkan forward Tamas Priskin. Zoltan Gera yang ditunjuk menjadi algojo sukses membuat Buffon tak berdaya. 2-1 Hungaria memimpin.
Akhirnya, 40,000 fans Hungaria bersorak gembira setelah Robert Feczesin memastikan kemenangan kemenangan Hungaria lewat gol yang diciptakannya.

[Ethuang]

8/23/2007
Buffon Slams Limp Azzurri Display


Italy number one Gianluigi Buffon has slammed his team's poor showing in the shock 3-1 defeat to Hungary in Budapest.

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Italy took the lead in the 49th minute through Antonio Di Natale, but three goals in sixteen minutes saw Hungary come back to heap a humiliating defeat on them.
"Certainly we expected to be in poor shape physically, even though after taking the lead we could have had at least a draw with a little more determination," said an unhappy Buffon after the game.
"We made the mistake of thinking our work was done and were punished by their hunger.
"I understand we are lacking in fitness at the moment, but we can always make up for that a little bit with more determination and grit.
"I think that after nights like this the media will always look to find fault with individuals, but I think we can only all come together and apologise, take our responsibility and work for the future."
He also spoke about whether the Azzurri will be able to recover in time for the Euro qualifiers against France and Ukraine.
"Will 15 days be enough to face France? They have to be," he said. "We know how important these games are and that we have to play our best and hope to get the results we want against France and Ukraine.
"We do have to evaluate how we work together as a team and I think that’s what really went wrong tonight – we were not as compact as we were in our last outing. That is something we have to work on in the next two weeks."
The problem, of course, is that the two weeks comprise of two rounds of Serie A action, with the likes of Inter, Lazio, Milan and Roma all involved in games during the middle of next week as well.
The two weeks will see Antonio Cassano's make his debut following his return to Italy, and the forward is one of many who could force their way into the Italy squad.
"I think it depends only on him," said Buffon. "Mother nature has given him many qualities and skills, but he now has to make the most of them. He needs to prove he is the champion we always said he was. He is a lovely, generous lad."

[Ethuang]

8/23/2007
Donadoni 'Not Happy' With Display

Roberto Donadoni was left disappointed with the way his team crumpled in the second half against Hungary's onslaught.

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"We met a team that had fresher legs and was more determined on the night," he began.
"We went OK in the first half, then lost our focus after the break and were punished for some silly errors."
Those errors will now have to be corrected during the five days ahead of the France game, with the FIGC having ruled out preponing the start of the Serie A season to give him more time.
"We can’t talk about that now, the situation is what it is," he said. "We have suffered a defeat and will try to work hard to get fit as soon as possible.
"There are two Serie A rounds first in which we can hope to get back the kind of form we need to take on France," he continued, trying to look at positives, and hoping that his players will pick up some much needed match fitness over the coming weeks.
"There were some mistakes, but these things happen and we must not demonise the defence. This is football and sometimes the breaks go your way, sometimes they don’t.
"However, I clearly cannot be happy after a 3-1 defeat."

[doyantoket]

ITALIA TAMPIL LOYO

Juara dunia Italia tampil mengeceewakan dan dibantai tuan rumah Hungaria 1-3 dalam pertandingan persahabatan di Budapest.

Italia yang akan memulai Liga Seri-A pekan ini, tampil tanpa motivasi. Mereka unggul lebih dulu pada menit 49 melalui Antonio Di Natale memanfaatkan bola pantul hasil tendangan keras Filippo Inzaghi.

Namun Hungaria mampu menyamakan kedudukan pada menit 62 melalui Roland Juhasz menaklukkan Gianluigi Buffon. Gol kedua dan ketiga lahir melalui penalti Zoltan Gera menit 66 dan Robert Feczesin menit 76.

Susunan pemain:
Hungaria: Marton Fulop, Zoltan Szelesi, Tamas Vasko, Roland Juhasz, Vilmos Vanczak (Csaba Csizmadia, 73), Adam Vass, Daniel Tozser (Leandro de Almeida, 59), Tamas Hajnal (Attila Filkor, 59), Zoltan Gera (Akos Buzsaky, 92), Tamas Priskin (Robert Feczesin, 73), Balazs Dzsudzsak (Peter Halmosi, 82).
Italia: Gianluigi Buffon, Massimo Oddo (Fabio Grosso, 46), Fabio Cannavaro, Marco Materazzi (Andrea Barzagli, 46), Gianluca Zambrotta, Massimo Ambrosini, Andrea Pirlo, Alberto Aquilani, Fabio Quagliarella, Alessandro Del Piero (Antonio Di Natale, 46), Luca Toni (Filippo Inzaghi, 46).

[doyantoket]

Cedera, Italia Kehilangan Matrix

Bukan hanya kekalahan memalukan yang diderita juara dunia Italia dari Hongaria 1-3, pada partai uji coba dini hari tadi. Tapi, Gli Azzurri juga harus kehilangan defender andalan Marco ‘Matrix’ Materazzi yang mengalami cedera.

Materazzi pun diragukan tampil melawan Prancis pada laga Kualifikasi Euro 2008, 8 September. Hal ini tentu menjadi pukulan besar buat arsitek Tim Azzurri, Roberto Donadoni yang sedang butuh kemenangan untuk mengamankan posisi Italia.

“Materazzi sedang dalam proses perawatan cederanya. Tapi, kami belum dapat berbicara sampai kapan dia akan manjalani perawatan. Materazzi mungkin saja akan absen melawan Prancis bulan depan,” ujar dokter tim Italia, Andrea Ferretti seperti dilansir Reuters, Kamis (23/8/2007).

Selain itu, pemain Inter Milan tersebut juga dipastikan absen pada laga pertama Serie A, akhir pekan ini. Inter akan bersua Udinese, Minggu (26/8/2007).

Posisi Italia saat ini memang cukup rentan. Itu jika menyimak tiga gol yang disarangkan Hongaria ke gawang Gianluigi Buffon.

Italia kini berada di peringkat 2 Grup B Kualifikasi Euro 2008. Italia mengumpulkan poin 16 dari 7 pertandingan dan hanya terpaut satu poin dari Skotlandia di posisi 3. Posisi teratas masih diduduki Tim Ayam Jantan Prancis.

[Ethuang]

Jum'at, 31/08/2007
Buntut Tandukan Zinedine Zidane
Matrix Akui Kesalahannya


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ROMA – Bek Italia Marco Materazzi mengakui kesalahannya atas apa yang dilakukannya kepada gelandang Prancis Zinedine Zidane pada Piala Dunia 2006.
Zizou melakukan tindakan tandukan brutal kepada Matrix setelah bek itu menghina adik pemain Aljazair tersebut. Matrix mengakui telah mengeluarkan kata-kata jika adik dari Zizou adalah (maaf) pelacur.

“Enam kata yang bodoh. Saya memang melakukan kesalahan. Tapi Zizou juga melakukan hal yang sama seperti apa yang saya lakukan,” keluh Materazzi, seperti dikutip AFP, Jumat (31/8/2007).

Pengakuan ini dilontarkan Matrix pada peluncuran otobiografinya yang berjudul ‘Kehidupan Seorang Ksatria”. Buku tersebut ditulis oleh dua jurnalis Italia yang diluncurkan sebelum bentrok Italia melawan Prancis 8 September mendatang di Milan pada ajang kualifikasi Euro 2008.

Prancis menang 3-1 pada pertemuan pertama. Tapi sayangnya Matrix harus absen di pertemuan kedua akibat dibekap cedera paha.

“Saya mengerti kenapa Zizou melakukan tindakan itu. Itu terjadi pada pertandingan yang berjalan dengan tekanan tinggi. Yang saya tidak mengerti kenapa semua orang memaafkannya sedangkan saya tidak yang nyata-nyata menjadi korban,” ketusnya.

[Ethuang]

Sabtu, 01/09/2007
Matrix Sesali Perkataannya Terhadap Zizou


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MILAN – Penyesalan memang selalu datang belakangan. Setidaknya hal ini juga dirasakan oleh Marco Materazzi. Kini, bek Inter Milan itu mengerti mengapa Zinedine Zidane sangat membenci dirinya. Pada final Piala Dunia 2006 lalu, Zizou secara mengejutkan menanduk Matrix panggilan akrab Materazzi yang mengangkibatkan dikartu merahkannya Zizou.
Dalam buku keluaran terbaru Matrix berjudul 'Una vita da guerriero', Matrix mengaku menyesali perbuatannya.
Bahkan, dia mengakui kalau kemungkinan dirinya bisa menghindari apa yang pernah dia katakana mengenai keluarga Zizou: “Saya lebih memilih adikmu yang pelacur itu,” ungkap pemain timnas Italia itu seperti dilansir Tribalfootball.
Dalam bukunya pemain berusia 33 tahun itu menulis: “Saya mengakui kalau saya mungkin bisa menghindari perkataan tolol seperti itu. Saya tidak ingin berbuat dosa, ketika saya masuk kedalam lapangan.
“Ketika dilapangan menghina dan dihina seperti memberi dan menerima. Malam pada final itu, kejadian pada saat tambahan waktu babak kedua, sayalah yang melakukan penghinaan.
Insiden itu bermula, ketika Matrix terlihat memegangi terus bajunya Zizou. Merasa kesal, pemain asal Prancis itu menawarkan Matrix bajunya setelah pertandingan usai.
“Sebenarnya, Zizou hanya mencoba bercanda dengan saya, tapi saya menjawabnya dengan hinaan. Apakah itu salah? Ya, saya sadar saya salah, tapi Zidane juga salah karena bereaksi seperti itu –melakukan tandukan yang menyebabkan saya terjatuh ketanah.
“Saya mengerti Zizou, karena hanya seseorang yang dikelilingi oleh 70,000 pasang mata skitar kalian, penonton dari tv, tensi pertandingan pertandingan itu sendiri selama 120 menit, tidak ada yang akan mengetahui apa yang akan terjadi.
"Kalau saya nilai tindakan dia, saya paham. Tpi, saya juga Tanya kepada diri saya apa yang akan terjadi kepada saya, jika saya juga dihina olehnya dan saya juga memiliki ide yang sama untuk menanduknya jatuh,” demikian penjelasan yang ditulis oleh Matrix kedalam bukunya.

[jeemack]

Kualifikasi EURO 2008


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Donadoni Panggil Panucci

Guna menghadapi Prancis dan Ukraina di laga lanjutan babak kualifikasi EURO 2008, pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni memanggil bek veteran Christian Panucci dan striker Shakthar Donetsk Cristiano Lucarelli.

Pemain andalan AS Roma di lini pertahanan itu sudah tidak pernah memperkuat Italia lagi sejak mengalahkan Bulgaria 2-1 pada Juni tahun 2004, akan tetapi kembali dipanggil guna mengisi kekosongan yang ditanggalkan oleh Marco Materazzi dan Fabio Cannavaro, karena mengalami cedera.

Meski Cannavaro tetap berada di dalam skuad, ia tidak mendapatkan jaminan 100 persen fit setelah sebelumnya mengalami cedera engkel saat berlatih bersama Real Madrid.

Striker Luca Toni juga berupaya untuk memulihkan diri dari permasalahan otot, akan tetapi tetap dibawa oleh Donadoni dalam dua pertandingan krusial ini.

Ujung tombak anyar Shakhtar Donetsk Lucarelli, turut dimasukkan oleh sang pelatih, meski baru dua kali bertugas di ajang persahabatan.

Penghargaan khusus diberikan kepada Pasquale Foggia, yang menerima pemanggilan untuk pertama kali di tingkat senior, setelah performanya mengundang decak kagum saat melawan Juventus akhir pekan ini.

Italia akan menghadapi pimpinan klasemen Grup B Prancis di San Siro pada 8 September mendatang dan menghadapi Ukraina di laga tandang empat hari berselang. Tentu hal ini akan dimanfaatkan oleh Lucarelli, yang merasa berada di kampung halamannya setelah merumput di Liga Ukraina.


Skuad Italia:

Kiper: Christian Abbiati (Atletico Madrid), Marco Amelia (Livorno), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus);

Belakang: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Alessandro Gamberini (Fiorentina), Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Massimo Oddo (AC Milan), Christian Panucci (AS Roma), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona)

Tengah: Massimo Ambrosini (Milan), Alberto Aquilani (Roma), Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Pasquale Foggia (Cagliari), Gennaro Gattuso (Milan), Simone Perrotta (Roma), Andrea Pirlo (Milan)

Depan: Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Filippo Inzaghi (Milan), Cristiano Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Luca Toni (Bayern Munich).

[Ethuang]

Skuad Italia


Kiper : Curci (AS Roma), Amelia (Livorno), Buffon (Juventus)

Belakang : Barzagli (Palermo), F Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Chiellini (Juventus), Gamberini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Lyon), Oddo (Milan), Panucci (Roma), Zambrotta (Barcelona)

Tengah : Ambrosini (Milan), Aquilani (Roma), Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Foggia (Cagliari), Gattuso (Milan), Perrotta (Roma), Pirlo (Milan)

Depan : Del Piero (Juventus), Di Natale (Udinese), F Inzaghi (Milan), C Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Quagliarella (Udinese), Toni (Bayern Munchen).

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 05 Sept 2007,
Coret Abbiati, Panggil Panucci


ROMA - Kandas sudah keinginan Christian Abbiati untuk menambah caps bersama Timnas Italia. Beberapa hari menjelang pertandingan melawan Prancis dan Ukraina, kiper yang memperkuat Atletico Madrid itu harus terlempar dari daftar skuad. Mantan kiper AC Milan, Juventus dan Torino ini terpaksa dipulangkan karena bermasalah dengan otot muscularnya saat menjalani sesi latihan bersama timnas di kawasan Coverciano. Tim medis Gli Azzruri menyatakan kondisi Abbaiti tidak mungkin dipaksakan untuk bermain.

Abbiati sendiri hanya menjadi kiper cadangan ketika Atletco Madrid dikalahkan Real Madrid pekan lalu. Sementara, terakhir kali dia membela Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia) ketika ujicoba melawan Pantai Gading pada 16 November 2005 silam.

"Cristian mengalami masalah dengan muscularnya. Sangat riskan jika dipaksakan. Dia harus istirahat dan menjalani terapi agar cederanya segara pulih," kata juru bicara tim medis Timnas Italia kepada Channel4.

Untuk mengisi posisi yang ditinggalkan penjaga gawang Atletico Madrid itu allenatore Robertop Donadoni memanggil penjaga gawang AS Roma, Gianluca Curci. Ini bukan kali pertama kiper Timnas Italia U-21 itu dipanggil timnas senior. Saat Italia dipermalukan Hungraia 1-3 dalam partai uji coba 22 Agustus lalu, nama Curci terdapat dalam daftar pemain cadangan.

Sementara itu, setelah absent tiga tahun di pentas internasional, Christian Panucci akhirnya bisa kembali memperkuat Azzurri. Panucci dipanggil untuk memperkuat lini pertahanan Italia yang krisis menyusul mundurnya Alessandro Nesta, dan cedera yang menimpa Fabio Cannavaro. Selain Panucci, Donadoni juga memanggil Cristiano Lucarelli untuk melapis lini pertahanan.

[itach1ez]

Italy host ´Les Bleus´ as feud rumbles on


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MILAN (AFP) - France coach Raymond Domenech and Italy defender Marco Materazzi are threatening to steal the spotlight when both sides meet for a potentially hot-tempered Euro 2008 clash at the San Siro on Saturday.

Group B leaders France face their World Cup final conquerors without Domenech on the touchline following the Frenchman's one-match ban by European football's ruling body UEFA for bringing the game into disrepute.

Italy, who sit second and two points adrift of France, will line up without Inter Milan defender Materazzi who as well as being injured seems to be still involved in a tit-for-tar war of words with Domenech.

The root of their ongoing feud can be found in the World Cup final, when Materazzi was famously head-butted by Zinedine Zidane after the Italian had goaded the France playmaker with insults about his sister.

Behind the reams of insults and insinuations that have been traded since the incident, there are points on offer which, with Scotland and Ukraine still in the mix, both sides can ill afford to miss out on.

Italy have been making most noises about who will dominate in Milan, and Materazzi - who like Domenech will watch from the sidelines - has made his contribution.

"France are a great team, but on Saturday they will lose at the San Siro," Materazzi told French newspaper Le Figaro on Thursday, admitting he will find it difficult to watch the match.

"It's going to be agony for me sitting in the stands. I will suffer, and I think Domenech will find it just as hard as I will.

"But I'm sure that my friends (Gennaro) Gattuso and (Fabio) Cannavaro, who are from the south (of Italy) like me will do all they can to show who the world champions are."

Materazzi's absence is unlikely to leave a gaping hole in the defence being lined up by Italy coach Roberto Donadoni.

And while he says Italy pose a formidable challenge, France midfielder Florent Malouda believes the absence of their coach could be motivational.

"Materazzi is still quite an influential player, in the sporting sense, but Italy have plenty of players to replace him," said Malouda.

"If he was there it would have added a bit more spice to the match, but it's Italy we're playing against, not Materazzi."

He added: "We will have to be focused because a match like this could be decided by the smallest of details, and because of the coach's absence it is up to us to be more focused on the job."

France are likely to line up in a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation which could see either Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka or Barcelona's Thierry Henry spearhead the French attack.

But whatever formations Domenech and his Italian counterpart Donadoni decide upon, all eyes will be watching for the niggling tackles and gestures that have the potential to spark unrest.

Malouda says the French will not bow to any intimidation as they bid to pull clear of their pursuers.

"We know there's going to be a bit of intimidation, and that Italy will be totally up for this match.

"They're going to try and put us under pressure, and try to provoke fouls," added the Frenchman.

He hinted that Zidane's dramatic headbutt, the playmaker's last competitive footballing gesture before his retirement, is still quietly haunting them.

"We will have to be strong mentally and try to keep our cool. Now, we know the things we shouldn't be provoked into doing."

[doyantoket]

Italia Gagal Balas Dendam

Usaha Italia untuk membalaskan kekalahan 1-3 di laga kualifikasi Euro 2008 gagal total. Gli Azzurri ditahan Prancis 0-0 sekaligus membuat Pelatih Roberto Donadoni harus bekerja keras meloloskan pasukannya yang digeser Skotlandia.

Setelah takluk di final Piala Dunia 2006 lewat adu penalti, Prancis selalu menjadi imipi buruk buat Italia. Apalagi, kini Italia tak diarsiteki oleh ahli strategi Marcelo Lippi, melainkan Donadoni.

Sedangkan Raymond Domenech terus menukangi Les Bleus. Tanpa Domenech di bangku pemain cadangan akibat skorsing satu laga oleh FIFA, Donadoni tak jua bisa menaklukkan Prancis.

Semua usaha telah dilakukan Gli Azzurri. Tekanan dari belakang lewat bek Fabio Cannavaro sampai pemain depan Alessandro del Piero serta Filippo Inzaghi tak jua menembus gawang Mikael Landreau.

Prancis sesekali balas menyerang dan menghasilkan peluang lewat Franck Ribery dan Florent Malouda. Tapi, juga tak mampu menembus jala Gianluigi Buffon.

Sampai akhir pertandingan, kedudukan tetap 0-0. Hasil ini, tentu sangat menyulitkan Italia. Pasalnya, mereka digeser Skotlandia.

Prancis tetap memimpin Grup B dengan 19 poin dari delapan laga. Dengan jumlah laga yang sama, Skotlandia membuntuti dengan 18 poin, lalu Italia di posisi 3 dengan 17 poin.

[doyantoket]

Ofisial Azzurri Kecam Supporternya

Kejadian memalukan yang diperlihatkan fans Gli Azzurri terhadap Prancis membuat muak kapten Italia, Fabio Cannavaro. Canna yang mewakili pasukannya mengecam kelakuan buruk tersebut.

Tercatat 80 ribu fans Azzurri seketika melakukan ejekan ketika dinyanyikannya lagu kebangsaan Prancis La Marsellaise. Kejadian itu sontak meninggalkan kegusaran di hati para pemain, baik Italia maupun Prancis.

“Kelakuan itu mengecewakan. Saya seringkali bermain pada laga internasional dan tidak pernah mendengar ejekan seperti ini. Ini adalah perbuatan kasar. Mereka seharusnya menghormati lagu kebangsaan Prancis,” kecam Canna seperti dilansir Goal, Minggu (9/9/2007).

Kecaman juga datang dari allenatore Azzuri, Roberto Donadoni. “Saya meminta maaf atas kejadian ini. Mengejek lagu kebangsaan Prancis jelas bukan perbuatan yang baik,” tegas Donadoni yang hanya mampu membawa pasukannya bermain imbang 0-0 dengan tim tamu.

[doyantoket]

Kembali Bikin Masalah, FIGC Kecam Domenech

Presiden Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) Giancarlo Abete menuduh pelatih Prancis Raymond Domenech tidak fair. Abete mengaku telah melihat Domenech di ruang ganti pemain, menjelang bentrok kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Italia. Padahal seharusnya dia berada di tribun penonton.

UEFA memberikan sanksi bagi Domenech yang harus melihat pasukannya bermain di tribun penonton. Aksi itu dilakukan UEFA yang melihat jika pelatih itu telah melakukan komentar yang salah mengenai wasit yang memimpin laga U-21 antara Italia melawan Prancis, 1999 lalu.

“Saya melihat Domenech di ruang ganti sebelum pertandingan digelar,” kecam Abete, seperti dilansir Channel 4, Minggu (9/9/2007).

Jika terbukti sanksi lanjutan kemungkinan besar bisa kembali didapatkan Domenech. Abete mengecam kelakuan pelatih yang selalu bermimik serius itu mengenai komentar miringnya akhir-akhir ini.

“Kami harus mengecam sikap yang berusaha mencabut segi sportivitas dari budaya olahraga,” tambah Abete.

[Ethuang]

Matrix Memohon Maaf Kepada Zizou


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MILAN – Mengakui kesalahan adalah tindakan yang bijaksana. Hal itulah yang dilakukan bek Gli Azzurri Marco Materazzi yang meminta maaf secara pribadi kepada mantan gelandang Prancis Zinedine Zidane atas komentar miringnya kepada adik perempuan Zizou, pada laga final Piala Dunia 2006 di Jerman. Matrix mengatakan kepada Zizou jika adik peremuannya adalah pelacur. Tidak menerima anggota keluarganya dicela, tandukan dari mantan pemain Real Madrid itupun mendarat di dada Matrix.

Sejak saat itu keduanya seperti melakukan perang dingin di hadapan publik.

“Saya ingin meminta maaf kepada Zidane. Buat saya dia adalah dewa sepakbola,” ungkap Matrix, seperti dikutip Goal, Selasa (11/9/2007).

Ejek-mengejek sebenarnya bukan hal yang baru bagi bek yang tengah dibekap cedera itu. Tapi di lain pihak anak buah Roberto Mancini ini mengungkapkan tidak mempunyai musuh seorangpun.

“Saya tidak mempunyai musuh dan prasangka buruk kepada orang lain. Saya sering mengejek Dejan Stankovic (rekannya di Inter Milan) dengan memanggilnya gipsi. Dia seperti saudara bagi saya,” tutupnya.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 12/09/2007
Cesare Maldini: Donadoni Masih ‘Hijau'


MILAN – Hasil imbang 0-0 antara Italia dengan Prancis menyesakkan batin eks Arsitek Azzurri Cesare Maldini. Dia melihat jika Roberto Donadoni masih ‘hijau’ untuk menangani tim nasional. “Dia memang mempunyai pengalaman di lapangan. Tapi ketika menangani tim nasional Mancini masih hijau,” kecam Cesare yang mengantarkan Italia ke babak perempatfinal Piala Dunia 1998, seperti dilansir Channel 4, Rabu (12/9/2007).
Ayah bek AC Milan Paolo Maldini itu melihat skuad yang diturunkan Mancini ketika melawan Les Bleus terlalu lemah. Sebelum Cesare, Donadoni juga banyak mendapatkan kecaman setelah menggantikan posisi Marcello Lippi.
Banyak pihak yang meragukan kemampuan eks arsitek Lazio, dan Sampdoria tersebut.
“Pengalaman jelas diperlukan bagi seorang pelatih. Saya memang tidak menyalahkannya tapi jelas pasukan yang dipilihnya melawan Prancis terlalu lemah secara fisik,” tambah Cesare.

Di lain pihak menurunnya prestasi Italia disebabkan hilangnya Francesco Totti, dan Alessandro Nesta. “Kehilangan dua pemain itu jelas menjadi beban bagi Italia,” tutupnya.

[jeemack]

Donadoni delight at Azzurri spirit

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Italy celebrate scoring in Ukraine (©Getty Images)


Thursday 13 September 2007
by Paolo Menicucci


Italy coach Roberto Donadoni praised the Azzurri's character after the 2-1 victory in Ukraine which took them back into a UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying position with three games left.

No fear
The home 0-0 draw with France on Saturday had allowed Scotland to interpose themselves between Les Bleus and the world champions in Group B. However, two Antonio Di Natale goals either side of an Andriy Shevchenko strike in Kiev last night allowed Italy to move one point ahead of France, beaten at home by new leaders Scotland. A delighted Donadoni declared: "When we play with this spirit we cannot fear any opponents."

Coach's gratitude
Donadoni had come in for criticism after the weekend result but following Wednesday's victory, sealed 13 minutes from time, he said: "We are a step behind all the other teams that we are facing right now physically because the league has just started in Italy. However, I want to thank my players for what they did. France's defeat against Scotland proved you cannot take anything for granted at this level. We will just continue on our own path as we have from the start of this qualifying campaign."

First test passed
Left-back Gianluca Zambrotta added: "This is the best win of our campaign. We suffered, we fought hard, and we deserved a win for ourselves and for the coach. I don't know if Scotland's victory in France was a good result for us because we still have to play away against them. We have three finals to play after passing the first examination, despite not being at the top of our condition. But the road is still very long."

©uefa.com 1998-2007. All rights reserved.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 19 Sept 2007,
Masih Ada Tempat buat Totti


MILAN - Francesco Totti selalu menolak panggilan Tim Nasional Italia sejak berakhirnya pentas Piala Dunia 2006. Puncaknya, pada 20 Juli lalu, kapten AS Roma itu mengumumkan pengunduran dirinya dari skuad Gli Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia). Totti berkilah, di usianya yang sudah berkepala tiga, dia harus mengurangi frekuensi penampilan di lapangan hijau. Dan ternyata, dia lebih memilih fokus membela AS Roma ketimbang membantu Italia lolos putaran final Euro 2008.

Pelatih Italia, Roberto Donadoni awalnya bisa menerima keputusan yang diambil top scorer Serie A musim lalu itu. Namun, ketika Luca Toni absen di dua laga kualifikasi Euro 2008 pekan lalu, Donadoni pun mulai merasa kalau Azzurri sangat membutuhkan kehadiran Totti. Karena itulah, Donadoni masih memberi kesempatan buat Totti untuk meralat keputusan pensiunnya dari timnas, dan kembali mengenakan kostum biru Azzurri.

"Saya tak pernah menutup pintu bagi seseorang. Saya tak akan menghambat seseorang yang akan memberi sumbangsih untuk timnas," ungkap Donadoni saat wawancara dengan televisi lokal Controcampo.

Ketika Italia menghadapi Ukraina, Antonio Di Natale yang dipanggil untuk menggantikan Toni, sebetulnya tampil cukup bagus. Dia bahkan ikut menyumbang gol. Namun, Donadoni merasa bomber Udinese itu masih belum bisa disejajarkan dengan Totti.

Donadoni makin ngebet meminta Totti kembali, karena dia masih menunjukkan ketajamannya bersama AS Roma musim ini. Hingga giornata ketiga, Totti telah menyumbang dua gol buat klub yang bermarkas di Olimpico itu.

"Saya akan menyambut dengan tangan terbuka jika dia (Totti) memutuskan kembali,"timpalnya.

Pada kesempatan itu, Donadoni juga membantah kalau kondisi internal Azzurri tengah retak. Rumor menyebutkan, kalau Donadoni memberikan perlakuan berbeda pada pemainnya saat di kamar ganti.

"Tak ada pembedaan di ruang ganti. Saya tak peduli dengan tulisan di media. Yang penting kekompakan di ruang ganti sangat bagus," cetusnya.

Kemenangan lawan Ukraina Kamis lalu membuat posisi Italia terdongkrak di peringkat kedua klasemen Grup B. Namun, Italia masih bisa tersingkir jika gagal memaksimalkan tiga laga sisa.

[jeemack]

Italia Geser Brasil


Jawara Piala Dunia 2006 Italia berhasil kembali memuncaki ranking dunia dari Federasi Sepakbola Internasional (FIFA), menggeser Brasil ke urutan ketiga.

Keberhasilan Italia naik dua tingkat dari urutan ketiga ke posisi teratas tidak lepas dari kemenangan 2-1 atas Ukraina dan hasil imbang tanpa gol melawan Prancis di ajang Kualifikasi EURO 2008.

Italia mengumpulkan 1,488 poin, disusul Argentina di urutan kedua dengan 1,451 angka dan Brasil di belakangnya yang mengumpulkan angka 1,444.

Ada pun urutan keempat ditempati oleh Jerman. Selain Italia, Belanda juga mengalami kenaikan peringkat sebanyak dua posisi ke urutan kelima.

Sama dengan Brasil, Prancis, yang baru saja dikalahkan Skotlandia 0-1, juga harus turun dua tingkat ke posisi enam. Spanyol, Portugal, Inggris dan Kroasia melengkapi urutan 10 besar rangking dunia versi FIFA.

Sementara itu Skotlandia menjadi tim dengan kenaikan peringkat tertinggi dari urutan ke-23 ke-14. Prestasi ini merupakan yang terbaik bagi Skotlandia sejak FIFA mengumumkan peringkat dunia pada Agustus 2003.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 27 Sept 2007,
Rindu Cassano, Puji Di Natale


ROMA - Gol yang dilesakkan Antonio Di Natale saat Italia menaklukkan Ukraina di babak kualifikasi Euro 2008 menjadi modal yang sangat berharga. Karena lewat gol tersebut, posisi bomber Udinese di skuad utama Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia) rasanya semakin sulit tergusur.

Posisi Di Natale semakin kuat setelah dia berhasil mencetak gol penentu kemenangan Udinese atas Juventus dua pekan lalu. Dia juga mencetak dua gol saat Udinese bertemu Reggina Minggu lalu. Kebetulan, dua laga tersebut disaksikan pelatih Azzurri, Roberto Donadoni. So, Donadoni pun kian sulit berpaling pada sosok bomber berusia 29 tahun itu.

"Di Natale memiliki kemampuan yang sangat vital. Dia sudah menemukan tempatnya lewat kemampuannya itu,"kata Donadoni kepada Channel4.

"Secara teknis, dia memiliki kemampuan di atas rata-rata pemain seusianya. Saya tak yakin penilaianku ini benar. Tapi, semua bisa melihat apa yang dia tunjukkan. Dia memiliki mental yang dibutuhkan untuk bisa mengenakan seragam Azzurri,"ujarnya.

Donadoni tak kaget kalau kemudian Di Natale jadi rebutan banyak klub. Dia menilai, Di Natale sudah selayaknya tampil membela klub besar.

"Seorang pemain seperti Di Natale seharusnya bermain di Liga Champions. Saya berharap dia mendapat kesempatan itu bersama Udinese,"tukasnya.

Mantan arsitek Livorno ini juga mengakui, kalau dia merindukan sosok Antonio Cassano di timnas. Sayang, hingga kini Cassano belum menunjukkan level permainan terbaiknya bersama Sampdoria.

"Apakah Cassano bisa kembali ke timnas, semua tergantung padanya. Tapi, ketika dia tampil lawan Genoa, dia sudah menunjukkan sikap yang tepat. Pintu akan selalu terbuka buatnya,"tutur Donadoni.

[Ethuang]

Pintu Donadoni Selalu Terbuka Buat Peter Pan


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ROMA – Penampilan apik striker Sampdoria, Antonio Cassano memikat hati Roberto Donadoni. Pelatih Italia itu pun membuka pintu buat pemain berjuluk Peter Pan itu ke skuad Gli Azzurri. Cassano yang dipinjamkan dari Real Madrid melakukan debut bersama Il Samp saat ditahan 0-0 Genoa, Minggu (23/9/2007) malam, waktu setempat. Penampilannya saat itu dinilai Donadoni sangat menjanjikan.
"Semuanya bergantung kepada Cassano. Kemarin, saya melihat penampilannya sangat menjanjikan. Cassano adalah pemain berkualitas hebat. Dia harus yakin dan tahu bahwa itu tercapai berkat latihan berat. Jika dia mampu tampil stabil, maka pintu Gli Azzurri terbuka lebar untuknya," sebut Donadoni seperti dilansir tribalfootball.
Italia memang butuh regenerasi di lini depan. Apalagi, setelah Il Principe Roma Francesco Totti mundur.

Kini, tinggal Alberto Gilardino serta Vincenzo Iaquinta, striker yang berusia di bawah 30 tahun. Satu lagi striker Italia adalah Filippo ‘Pippo’ Inzaghi (34 tahun) yang juga telah uzur.

[jeemack]

AZZURRI FIRST IN THE FIFA RANKINGS IN OCTOBER NATIONAL IN GENOA AND SIENA


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Rome 19/09/2007

Genoa and Siena are the next steps for the National team coached by Donadoni that based on the new FIFA standings, published after the recent international matches, is back in first place in the world rankings in front of Argentina, Brazil and Germany.

The next official match for the Azzurri, Italy-Georgia, valid for EURO 2008, will be in Genoa at the Marassi stadium on Saturday, October 13th.

Another 3 points for the Euro qualifications that will be held in Austria and Switzerland next year are at stake in this match.

Four days later, the National team will be back on the field against South Africa in a friendly match, with Siena hosting the Azzurri.

The FIGC keeps its prime with the city and fans in Siena: in fact, last February Italy was supposed to play against Romania but the match was cancelled after the tragic accidents in Catania that cost the life of police inspector, Filippo Raciti.

[Ethuang]

Donadoni Peringatkan Del Piero


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ROMA – Pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni mengisyaratkan bahwa dirinya tidak bisa menerima ultimatum Alessandro Del Piero baru-baru ini. Imbasnya Donadoni berencana tidak menyertakan Del Piero dalam skuad Azzurri.
The Golden Boy Juventus itu berkomentar bahwa Roberto Donadoni selalu menomorduakan dirinya dalam skuad Italia. Kapten Juve itu merasa Donadoni seolah baru akan memanggilnya bila sedang kekurangan stok stiker.

"Pada suatu saat, Donadoni akan memanggil saya jika memang ia membutuhkan penyerang, tapi pada suatu kondisi dia tidak memanggil saya dan menempatkan saya sebagi penyerang lubang," demikain komentar Alessandro Del Piero seperti dilansir Goal, Jumat (28/9/2007).

Donadoni semula menghormati keinginan Del Piero, tapi mantan pelatih Livorno itu tidak bisa menerima komentar yang dikeluarkan oleh anak asuhnya tersebut.

“Saya tidak menempatkannya sebagai striker murni dan memilih dia sebagai penyerang lubang? Karena memang Del Piero cocok ditempatkan di posisi tersebut. Namun saya sungguh tidak suka apabila dia berkomentar di luar, saya lebih menghargai dialog antara kami,” ujar Roberto Donadoni.

“Banyak pemain fleksibel dalam skuad saya, dan saya bisa saja tidak memanggil Del Piero karena memang pilihan pemain saya banyak. Apalagi kini banyak pemain muda berkualitas,” tambah Donadoni.

Donadoni memang menyatakan bahwa dirinya sangat berharap banyak kepada Giuseppe Rossi, Riccardo Montolivo, Alessandro Rosina dan Marco Borriello. Karena di pundak mereka prestasi Italia akan dibebankan.

[jeemack]

Euro 2008



SUNDAY THE 7TH PLAYERSCALLED FOR ITALY-GEORGIA FROM TUSDAY, THE 9TH, TRIANING IN COVERCIANO


Rome 01/10/2007

Roma 01/10/2007 After the tie in Milan against France and the good win in Kiev against Ukraine, Italy will be back on the field on October 13th to play against Georgia, another fundamental step towards the Euro 2008 qualifications.

At the same time, Scotland plays against Ukraine, while the Far Oer Islands play against France. Four days later, the National team will be back on the field for a friendly match against South Africa: for the first time in the history of Italian football, Siena will host the Azzurri.

The choice of the Tuscany location was tied to the commitment made by the Federation with regards to the city and fans, after the Italy-Romania match was cancelled last February because of the tragic events that took place in Catania with the death of police inspector Filippo Raciti.

On October 17th, the Euro 2008 calendar foresees the following matches: Georgia-Scotland, Ukraine-Far Oer and France-Lithuania. Head coach Donadoni will release the list of players on Sunday, the 7th, and the next day the Azzurri will go to Coverciano where on Tuesday, the 9th, they will have a double training session.

Here is the training and press conference schedule:

Sunday 7 October 2007 List of players called is released

Monday 8 October 2007 h.20.00 Players meet at the Federal Technical center in Coverciano

Tuesday 9 October 2007 h. 10.30 Training (open to the press) h.13.15 ca. Press conference (Head coach + players) h.16.00 Training (closed door)

Wednesday 10 October 2007 h.10.00 Training (open to the press) h.13.15 ca. Press conference (players) h.16.00 Training (closed door)

Thursday 11 October 2007h.13.15 ca. Press conference (players)h.16.00 Training (open to the press)

Friday 12 October 2007h.10.45 Bus transfer to Genoa h.17.30 Training at the stadium"Luigi Ferraris"press conference follows (Head coach + players)

Saturday 13 October 2007 h.20.50 EURO 2008 QUALIFYING MATCH ITALY-GEORGIA Press conference follows.

Sunday 14 October 2007 h. 10.00 Press conference with head coach at "Luigi Ferraris" ***********ITALY-SOUTH AFRICA

Monday 15 October 2007 h.12.00 Players meet at the Federal technical center in Covercianoh.13.15 ca. Press conference (players) h.16.00 Training (open to the press) Transfer to Siena in the evening

Tuesday 16 October 2007 h.17.30 training at the stadium "Artemio Franchi - Montepaschi Arena" in Siena.press conference follows (Head coach + Players)

Wednesday 17 October 2007 h.20.50 ITALY-SOUTH AFRICA Press conference follows

[jeemack]

Del Piero Mungkin ke Milan

Penyerang Juventus Alessandro Del Piero secara mengejutkan dikabarkan akan bergabung dengan rival abadi klubnya AC Milan setelah negosiasi perpanjangan kontraknya menemui jalan buntu.

Del Piero, yang merupakan pencetak gol terbanyak sepanjang masa di Juve, diharapkan mengakhiri karirnya bersama La Vecchia Signora.

Akan tetapi pemain berusia 32 tahun itu tengah mengalami rasa frustrasi karena hingga saat ini pembicaraan mengenai perpanjangan kontrak menemui jalan buntu.

Bahkan direktur olahraga Juve Alessio Secco sempat membuat pernyataan bila Del Piero dapat saja meninggalkan klub yang telah dibelanya sejak lama itu.

Rupanya hal ini dimanfaatkan Milan untuk memancing di air keruh. Pelatih Milan Carlo Ancelotti mengakui tertarik mendapatkan Del Piero.

"Tidak ada alasan bila Del Piero tidak akan bergabung bersama Milan dengan bebas transfer," ujar Ancelotti sesaat setelah Milan takluk dari Glasgow Celtic di Liga Champions.

Tidak salah bila Ancelotti menginginkan Del Piero karena ia sudah tidak asing lagi dengan sang maskot Juve itu. Ancelotti sempat melatih Juve selama beberapa musim sebelum hijrah ke Milan.

[jeemack]

Kualifikasi Euro 2008

Donadoni Buang Inzaghi - Del Piero


Pelatih Italia, Roberto Donadoni tidak menyertakan dua nama pahlawan Italia di Piala Dunia 2006: Alessandro Del Piero dan Filippo ‘Pippo’ Inzaghi dalam laga Kualifikasi Euro 2008.

Donadoni secara resmi telah mengumumkan 22 nama yang akan disertakan untuk melawan Georgia di Genoa, 13 Oktober nanti.

Tidak dipanggilnya Del Piero, disinyalir akibat protesnya kepada sang allenatore Gli Azzurri itu pada pertandingan melawan Prancis, bulan lalu. Saat itu, Del Piero hanya ingin dipasang sebagai striker bukan gelandang.

Sementara itu, tidak dipanggilnya Pippo sedikit mengejutkan. Faktanya, dia menjadi satu-satunya striker AC Milan paling subur meski baru mencetak satu gol di Serie A dan Liga Champions musim ini. Tapi, dimata Donadoni, Pippo belum pada puncak permainannya.

Gelandang Fiorentina, Riccardo Montolivo, yang juga mantan anggota tim Azzurri U-21, akan melakukan debutnya di tim senior.

Sementara itu, Donadoni dipastikan akan kehilangan defender sekaligus kapten Fabio Cannavaro dan Marco Materazzi serta Gianluca Zambrotta yang masih mengalami cedera. Namun, duet gelandang AS Roma: Simone Perrotta dan Alberto Aquilani, serta gelandang Juventus, Mauro Camoranesi sudah siap diturunkan.

Italia kini berada di posisi 2 klasemen sementara Grup B dengan mengumpulkan poin 20 dari sembilan laga, di bawah Skotlandia. Seusai melawan Georgia, Italia akan melakukan pertandingan ujicoba melawan Afrika Selatan di Siena, 17 Oktober.

SKUAD ITALIA YANG DISIAPKAN

Kiper: Marco Amelia (Livorno), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Gianluca Curci (AS Roma)

Belakang: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Daniele Bonera (AC Milan), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Alessandro Gamberini (Fiorentina), Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Massimo Oddo (AC Milan), Christian Panucci (AS Roma).

Gelandang: Massimo Ambrosini (AC Milan), Daniele De Rossi (AS Roma), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Stefano Mauri (Lazio), Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)

Depan: Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus), Pasquale Foggia (Cagliari), Cristiano Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Luca Toni (Bayern Munich)

[jeemack]

Del Piero Disappointed To Be Dropped By Donadoni

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Alessandro Del Piero has graciously accepted Roberto Donadoni’s decision to axe him from his Italy squad to face Georgia and South Africa but regrets Juventus’ draw with Fiorentina yesterday.

Yesterday was a bad day for Del Piero. First of all the Golden Boy was dropped from the Juventus line-up in place of Vincenzo Iaquinta. Iaquinta went on to score for the Bianconeri against Fiorentina and had a solid game until Del Piero replaced him with 13 minutes to go.

Then with just two minutes remaining the Viola won a penalty and Adrian Mutu fired past Gianluigi Buffon to secure a 1-1 draw for the home side.

The day got even worse as Roberto Donadoni read out his latest Azzurri squad without Del Piero’s name on it.

“It displeases me not to make the squad of players to face Georgia, however I wish luck to my Italy colleagues,” said Del Piero.

“I regret the draw against Fiorentina yesterday. In one way the result is positive as this is a city where it is historically very difficult to get a result.

“However it hurts how we were pegged back in the final minutes. We played a good and attentive game and succeeded in making the most of Fiorentina’s post-UEFA Cup fatigue. It is a shame how the game finished.”

[jeemack]

Donadoni Hints At Del Piero Age Factor

Italy Coach Roberto Donadoni has explained his reasons for leaving Alessandro Del Piero out of his squad to face Georgia and South Africa and has hinted that the years may be catching up with him.


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The Golden Boy has had a disappointing start to the Serie A season and has scored just once in his club’s first seven games. On Sunday he was dropped from the starting line-up and replaced by Vincenzo Iaquinta.

“It was difficult to leave anyone at home, not just Del Piero,” Donadoni told the press.

“At 33, he will find it harder to recover than at 27, but he has shown he is in condition.“My choices are never personal and every one of my 20 players are treated equally.

“I have spoken to Inzaghi and Del Piero and told them that I make my choices on a single-game basis and select the men for each job.

“Players need to think of themselves as important, but time passes for everyone. I know because I thought I was at the top when I wasn’t.”

Question marks will certainly now be raised whether we have seen Del Piero play in an Italy shirt for the last time.

[jeemack]

Abete: This Is Not The End Of Del Piero’s Italy Career

Italian Football Federation President Giancarlo Abete has rejected that Alessandro Del Piero’s omission from the Azzurri squad could signal the end of his international career.


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The Golden Boy was left off Roberto Donadoni’s list of players to face Georgia and South Africa, with the ex-Livorno boss preferring to select Luca Toni, Fabio Quagliarella, Cristiano Lucarelli, Vincenzo Iaquinta and Antonio Di Natale in the forward positions.

Donadoni hinted in today’s press conference that with Del Piero approaching 33, he could not be expected to do some of the things he could when he was 27.

Del Piero’s absence has no doubt led to speculation that he may have already played his last game for the Azzurri. However Abete says this is not the case.

“Being left out of the squad doesn’t mean the end of his international career,” the President stressed.“Donadoni’s choices are his own and the Italian Football Federation has complete faith in him.”

Del Piero made his Italy debut in 1995 and has since gone on to play 85 times for his country, placing him fifth on the all-time list of Italian cap-holders.

Despite this impressive tally, the Golden Boy has never really reproduced his stunning club form for Juventus at international level.

[jeemack]

Iaquinta Doubtful For Georgia

Italy striker Vincenzo Iaquinta may miss the crucial Euro 2008 qualifier with Georgia on Saturday due to a knee injury.


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The Juventus hitman had to be replaced during Sunday's clash with Fiorentina after picking up the complaint, however Azzurri boss Roberto Donadoni still named him in his squad after the game.

Iaquinta has made an excellent start to his Bianconeri career since joining from Udinese in the summer and has already hit the back of the net four times. Despite this injury setback, everyone is remaining hopeful that the marksman will be ready for the weekend.

“The knee is swollen and it will need to be rested for a few days, at least a couple,” Iaquinta told the Press at the Azzurri training camp in Coverciano.

“We are hoping that Iaquinta will recover in time,” Azzurri doctor Andrea Ferretti agreed.“He needs to stay off it for two or three days. He took a blow to the top of the knee and there is some fluid in there.”

“The next 48 hours could be decisive,” Donadoni added. “We hope he comes through as he is a player who can play a variety of roles and his versatility is very useful.”

Even if Iaquinta does pull through, it seems likely that he will only start from the bench. Antonio Di Natale is the early favourite to partner Luca Toni up-front, but a lot will depend on the Udinese man's state of mind after the sad death of his mother last week.

[jeemack]

Euro Qualifying Group B: Who Will Survive Group Of Death?

When the Euro 2008 qualifying draw was made in January 2006, Group B was immediately touted as the ‘Group of Death’. This is exactly what it has turned out to be. Carlo Garganese looks ahead to the next round of qualifiers...


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The Current Situation

With three matches remaining in the group things are really heating up. It seems likely that Scotland, Italy and France face a straight fight for the two qualification places, however Ukraine cannot be totally discounted just yet.

In the last round of qualifiers in September, Scotland gained maximum points from their two games with a 3-1 win at home to Lithuania and then a shock 1-0 victory over France in Paris.

Italy drew 0-0 in Milan with rivals France, before earning an excellent 2-1 win in the Ukraine four days later. This defeat for Ukraine, coupled with the disappointing draw with Georgia, means that Oleg Blokhin’s men are dangerously close to elimination.

Scotland are top with 21 points from nine games. Italy have 20 points, while France, after just one point from September’s games, are a point further back on 19. Ukraine are hanging on by the skin of their teeth in fourth place with 13 points, although they do have a game in hand.

This Week's Qualifiers And Permutations

Scotland

This Saturday, Ukraine face Scotland at Hampden Park, knowing that anything less than a win will lead to virtual elimination from the race to qualify for Austria and Switzerland. The Tartan Army will be aware that maximum points, both from this game and the match in Georgia on Wednesday evening; will mean a draw against Italy on November 21 will ensure their passage to their first major championships for a decade.

Italy

The Azzurri play just the one game in this round of qualifiers, against Georgia on Saturday. The match in Genoa is a must-win clash for Roberto Donadoni’s men.

Scotland’s shock win in Paris on September 12 was the worst possible outcome for the Azzurri mathematically, as it now means that they may have to win all three of their remaining fixtures, including the showdown in Glasgow, to qualify for Euro 2008.

France

France have two easy-looking games on paper over the coming week. Les Bleus travel to the Faroes Islands on Saturday before hosting Lithuania on Wednesday. Despite currently sitting in third place, Raymond Domenech’s men know that their destiny is still in their own hands.

If France win all three of their remaining group games they will qualify, as at least one of Scotland or Italy will then knock each other out during their clash in November. There are so many permutations in this Group Of Death that you could almost write a book about it.

Ukraine

Ukraine are not completely out of the mix. If they win all four of their remaining fixtures, including the match this Saturday, they will finish on 25 points. If Italy then take points off Scotland next month, this will be enough for the Yellow-Blues to finish above Alex McLeish’s men.

In this scenario it will then come down to a fascinating final-day, where (providing France as expected beat the Faroe Islands and Lithuania), Ukraine will have to win against Les Bleus by a better scoreline than 2-0 in order to finish above them on a better head-to-head record.

Group B is all very complicated and, even as I write, I am assuming that Italy will emerge victorious from both their game with Georgia this Saturday and the contest with the Faroe Islands on November 21. What is certain is that things will be a lot clearer after this next round of Euro 2008 qualifiers.

[jeemack]

Mauri: We Must Beat Georgia

Italy midfielder Stefano Mauri admits that Saturday’s Euro 2008 qualifier against Georgia is a must-win game.


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The Azzurri currently sit in second-place in Group B with 20 points, a point ahead of France and a point below group-leaders Scotland.

With three matches remaining, including a daunting trip to Scotland next month, it is very possible that Italy will have to win all of their matches to qualify for Austria and Switzerland.

Lazio star Mauri has been plagued by injuries in recent times but has worked his way back to full-fitness after returning in the Champions League draw with Olympiakos on September 18.

“I’m happy to be back in the set-up after a period packed full of injuries,” the ex-Udinese man said.

“I’ve come back to the same group with a few more games under their belts and in good physical shape.

“We have to win at all costs on Saturday. Luckily the young players are very good and Roberto Donadoni has done well to notice them.

“I can play in various roles and I will make any contribution I can against Georgia or in the friendly against South Africa next week.”

[jeemack]

Donadoni Explains Gilardino Position

Italy Coach Roberto Donadoni has admitted he was happy to see Milan striker Alberto Gilardino return to form on Sunday and says it is tough to leave any player out of his squad.


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Gilardino had made a dismal start to the season until Sunday’s game with Lazio, having failed to hit the back of the net in his first six Serie A games and being roundly booed by his own supporters.

The ex-Parma man was preferred to Filippo Inzaghi for the match at the Stadio Olimpico and answered his critics in devastating fashion by scoring two goals and putting in and excellent performance.

Unfortunately this display came too late to win a recall to the Italy squad as Donadoni had already named his list of players after the afternoon Serie A matches.

"It's hard to leave players home,” admitted the Azzurri boss. “In my work as national team coach leaving a player at home, on the bench or in the stands is the most difficult part.”

“Gilardino? I know what he's done, and we shouldn't forget he is a goalscorer, someone who puts the balls in the back of the net. Seeing him do well last Sunday certainly made me happy."

[jeemack]

Montolivo: Playing For Italy Is A Dream

Fiorentina star Riccardo Montolivo has revealed he has dreamed about playing for the Azzurri since he was a young child.


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The 22-year-old midfielder earned his maiden call-up to the Italy squad for the matches with Georgia and South Africa and is tipped as an international star of the future.

"It's every child's dream to play for the national team,” said Montolivo.

“I didn't expect to be called up, so my happiness is doubled. I've matured a lot in the last two years, and I have to thank my coach Cesare Prandelli and my team-mate Fabio Liverani who've helped me so much. I want to dedicate this first call-up to my family."

Montolivo is unlikely to start Saturday’s must win Euro 2008 qualifier in Genoa against Georgia but he is expected to feature heavily in the friendly with 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa four days later.

The playmaker has been likened to Milan star Andrea Pirlo due to his fantastic vision and passing, although ex-Azzurri boss Marcello Lippi has, surprisingly perhaps, labeled the youngster as the ‘little Steven Gerrard’.

Montolivo started his career at hometown club Atalanta in 2003, before moving onto Fiorentina in 2005.

[jeemack]

Buffon: Del Piero Italy Career Is Not Over

Gianluigi Buffon has declared that Alessandro Del Piero will return to the Azzurri fold despite his omission from the squad to face Georgia and South Africa.


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The Golden Boy was left off Roberto Donadoni’s latest squad list, with the Italy Coach preferring the attacking options of Antonio Di Natale, Vincenzo Iaquinta, Cristiano Lucarelli, Fabio Quagliarella and Luca Toni.

This has left many people questioning whether the soon-to-be 33-year-old has played his last game for his country.

Del Piero’s Juventus colleague Gianluigi Buffon does not believe this is the case and thinks Il Pinturicchio will come back and prove his quality.

“Del Piero’s adventure with the national team has not ended,” Buffon said at Italy’s training camp at Coverciano.

“Donadoni has not said his time is over and he has the desire to win his place back. He will return and prove his worth.

“The reason he wasn’t called up is because Donadoni did not want to humiliate him by leaving him on the bench or in the stands.”

[ekoardo]

Montolivo: Playing For Italy Is A Dream

Fiorentina star Riccardo Montolivo has revealed he has dreamed about playing for the Azzurri since he was a young child.


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The 22-year-old midfielder earned his maiden call-up to the Italy squad for the matches with Georgia and South Africa and is tipped as an international star of the future.

"It's every child's dream to play for the national team,” said Montolivo.

“I didn't expect to be called up, so my happiness is doubled. I've matured a lot in the last two years, and I have to thank my coach Cesare Prandelli and my team-mate Fabio Liverani who've helped me so much. I want to dedicate this first call-up to my family."

Montolivo is unlikely to start Saturday’s must win Euro 2008 qualifier in Genoa against Georgia but he is expected to feature heavily in the friendly with 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa four days later.

The playmaker has been likened to Milan star Andrea Pirlo due to his fantastic vision and passing, although ex-Azzurri boss Marcello Lippi has, surprisingly perhaps, labeled the youngster as the ‘little Steven Gerrard’.

Montolivo started his career at hometown club Atalanta in 2003, before moving onto Fiorentina in 2005.

Akhirnya nih bang jago dipanggil juga
kalo montolivo mah beberapa tahun lagi juga ngelewatin gerrard

[jeemack]

Buffon Proud To Captain Italy

Gianluigi Buffon has revealed his delight at captaining Italy for the first time in his career, but admits that it is going to be tough for the Azzurri to qualify for Euro 2008.


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The Juventus number one made his debut for Italy almost exactly ten years ago, during a World Cup play-off against Russia in October 1997.

A decade and 78 appearances later, Buffon will captain the Azzurri for the first time during Saturday's crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Georgia.

"It is an achievement after ten years with the Azzurri," said Buffon "I hope to carry on playing international football for a long time. I don't think I'll keep going until I'm 40, but when people talk about the need to bring through a new generation of players, I don't think they're talking about me.

"It's going to be tough to qualify, particularly because a few teams are making everything more difficult than we expected it to be.

"On paper, we have two easy games [against Georgia and the Faroe Islands] and one difficult one in Scotland. For now, though, we can only think about beating Georgia. We will have plenty of time to think about the trip to Glasgow."

Italy currently sit in second place in Group B, one point behind Scotland, and one above France.

[jeemack]

Bonera: Del Piero Azzurri Days Are Not Over

Italy defender Daniele Bonera is the latest player to declare that Alessandro Del Piero has not played his last game for the Azzurri.


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The Golden Boy was left out of Coach Roberto Donadoni’s squad to face Georgia and South Africa, thus causing many to question whether we will ever see the Juventus star in an Azzurri shirt again.

Yesterday Gianluigi Buffon claimed that Del Piero would return and prove his worth, while Milan stopper Bonera is echoing his sentiments.

"The coach has to make his choices, but I don't think that Del Piero or Inzaghi or many other great footballers, are excluded for good,” Bonera said at Italy’s training ground at Coverciano.

The 26-year-old is back in the Italy fold after a sound start to the season with his club and is hoping to win a place in the team for the Euro 2008 qualifier with Georgia on Saturday evening.

“Being part of the national team, aside from eventual absences, is always a big responsibility. I'm proud of the fact I get called up frequently,” Bonera added.

“Playing at high levels gives me the chance to be called up by the national team coach. My place in the team? I will try to showcase myself, there is still time to convince Donadoni.

“In any case, Italy-Georgia, like all the other qualification matches for the European tournament, is a difficult match. They have nothing to lose."

[jeemack]

Iaquinta and Chiellini Fit For Italy

Azzurri Coach Roberto Donadoni has been handed a massive boost after Vincenzo Iaquinta and Giorgio Chiellini recovered from injuries in time for this Saturday’s match with Georgia.


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The Juventus pair were both rated as doubts for the crucial Euro 2008 qualifier in Genoa but their physical conditions have improved dramatically.

Chiellini had been struggling with a thigh problem, however he is now ready to train with the rest of the squad today.

The 23-year-old’s return to fitness could be vital as the Azzurri are already without the suspended Fabio Cannavaro and injured Marco Materazzi and Gianluca Zambrotta in defence.

The ex-Azzurrini captain is being tipped to fill Zambrotta’s left-back position against Georgia.

Chiellini’s Bianconeri team-mate Iaquinta limped off with a swollen knee during Sunday’s Serie A match with Fiorentina but the ex-Udinese man has also recovered his fitness.

Iaquinta has had a stunning start to his Juventus career, scoring four goals in as many games since joining in the summer.

The 27-year-old has been capped for Italy 20 times but has scored just the one goal. This came against Ghana in the Azzurri’s opening game of the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

[jeemack]

Toni: We Must Beat Georgia

Azzurri striker Luca Toni says that Saturday’s Euro 2008 qualifier against Georgia is a must-win match and admits that he is good shape at the moment.


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The Bayern Munich hitman has had a sensation start to his career in Germany, scoring 11 goals in 10 games this season in all competitions.

The German media has nicknamed Toni the “deadlock breaker” as he has scored the opening goal six times this campaign. The ex-Fiorentina bomber will be hoping to continue this form for La Nazionale on Saturday and add to his 12 international goals from 28 appearances.

“It’s a good time for me and I feel physically and mentally well,” Toni explained.

“Lots of people are showing their faith in me and that can’t help but please me.“I will try and give my all for the national side and play as I have been with Bayern.

“We must take all three points against Georgia and then we can see what has happened elsewhere. We need to concentrate on our own path.

“Me, a leader of the side? I’m not even sure that I’m going to be picked.”

With three games remaining Italy currently sit in second place in Group B, one point behind leaders Scotland and one above France.

[jeemack]

Italia Diganggu Kontroversi Del Piero

Skuad Italia bersiap menggulung Georgia dalam laga di lanjutan kualifikasi Piala Eropa 2008, Sabtu (13/10). Tapi keputusan pelatih Azzurri, Roberto Donadoni, tidak memanggil Alessandro Del Piero, membuat suasana di dalam tim agak kurang kondusif.


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Italia menghadapi lanjutan kualifikasi Piala Eropa 2008 dengan sikap optimisme. Skuad Azzuri itu yakin bisa mengatasi Georgia yang akan dihadapi di Genoa, Sabtu (13/10) lusa.

Kemenangan atas Georgia bisa membawa Italia naik ke puncak klasemen sementara Grup B. Setelah itu mereka tinggal mencari tambahan tiga angka lagi saat menghadapi Skotlandia dan Kepulauan Faroe, bulan depan, dalam dua laga terakhir.

Sayangnya, persiapan tim Italia sekarang agak terganggu oleh kontroversi keputusan pelatih Roberto Donadoni yang tidak memanggil dua striker kawakan, Alessandro Del Piero (33) dan Filippo Inzaghi (34). Kedua pemain tidak dipanggil karena dianggap sudah terlalu 'tua' buat tampil dalam laga di kualifikasi Euro 2008.

Roberto Donadoni kini lebih percaya trio striker Luca Toni (Bayern Munich), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus) dan Antonio Di Natale (Udinese). Ketajaman trio penyerang ini dianggap Donadoni sudah cukup memadai bagi skuad Azzurri buat melibas Georgia nanti. Iaquinta kini telah menjadi striker utama Juventus dan menggeser Del Piero jadi pemain cadangan.

Setelah sembuh dari cedera lutut, ia langsung diberi kepercayaan oleh Donadoni buat mengisi tempat yang biasa diisi oleh Del Piero. Sedangkan Antonio Di Natale tampil impresif saat Italia menang 2-1 atas Ukraina, September silam. Ia memborong dua gol kemenangan Azzurri waktu itu. Kini ia diharapkan main cemerlang lagi saat melawan Georgia di hari ulangtahunnya yang ke-30, Sabtu lusa.

Adapun Luca Toni telah membuat start gemilang bersama Bayern Munich di kompetisi Bundesliga musim ini. Mantan bomber Fiorentina itu telah mencetak delapan gol buat Munich. Walau trio Iaquinta-Toni-Natale tampil impresif belakang ini, tetap saja fans Italia mempertanyakan keputusan Donadoni tidak memanggil Del Piero, sang 'Golden Boy' persepakbolaan Italia itu.

"Petualangannya dengan tim nasional belum berakhir. Donadoni tidak mengatakan ia sudah selesai. Sebagai pelatih, Donadoni tidak mau menyakiti hati Del Piero jika hanya dijadikan pemain cadangan dan duduk di bench saja," tutur kiper utama tim nasional Italia, Gianluigi Buffon, Kamis (11/10).

Untuk laga melawan Georgia nanti, Italia tidak akan diperkuat kapten kesebelasan Fabio Cannavaro. Itu karena sang stopper Real Madrid itu kena akumulasi dua kartu kuning yang diterimanya dalam pertandingan sebelumnya. Bek tangguh Marco Materazzi dan Gianluca Zambrotta juga terpaka absen karena belum pulih dari cedera. Sedangkan bek muda asal Juventus, Giorgio Chiellini, diragukan siap tampil karena masih dililit cedera ringan.

[DORCE]

Donadoni Panggil Adik Cannavaro (http://biangbola.com/berita/Donadoni-Panggil-Adik-Cannavaro/berita.php?b=9216)
[Minggu, 14 Oktober 2007 10:35,santo83.com]

Pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni memanggil adik kandung Fabio Cannavaro, Paolo, yang menerima panggilan internasionalnya untuk pertama kali bersama pemain debutan lainnya untuk menghadapi Afrika Selatan di partai persahabatan Rabu (17/10) mendatang.
Donadoni, dimana tim ashuannya itu mampu memenangi pertandingan saat menghajar Georgia 2-0 pada akhir pekan kemarin di Genoa, memutuskan untuk tidak menurunkan pemain kuncinya pada pertandingan tersebut, demi melawan Skotlandia di partai lanjutan kualifikasi EURO bulan depan.

Cannavaro, 26 tahun, menyusul ujung tombak AC Milan Alberto Gilardino di dalam skuad, sementara striker Juventus Vincenzo Iaquinta turut masuk ke dalam skuad setelah absen dalam beberapa pertandingan sebelumnya.

Alessandro Del Piero dan Filippo Inzaghi untuk kesekian kalinya tidak dicantumkan oleh Donadoni.

Italia saat ini berada di peringkat kedua pada klasemen sementara Grup B dan hanya terpaut satu poin dari Skotlandia dan unggul satu angka dari Prancis, dengan menyisakan dua laga lagi.

Skuad Italia:

Kiper: Marco Amelia (Livorno), Gianluca Curci (AS
Roma)

Belakang:: Cristian Zaccardo (Palermo), Giandomenico Mesto (Udinese), Daniele Bonera (AC Milan), Alessandro Gamberini (Fiorentina), Paolo Cannavaro (Napoli), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus)

Tengah: Andrea Dossena (Udinese), Daniele De Rossi (AS
Roma), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Antonio Nocerino (Juventus), Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina), Franco Semioli (Fiorentina), Pasquale Foggia (Cagliari), Stefano Mauri (Lazio)

Depan: Alessandro Rosina (Torino), Cristiano Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Alberto Gilardino (AC Milan), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus

[Ethuang]

Jumat, 19 Okt 2007,
Pemain Debutan Beri Harapan


SIENA - Upaya Pelatih Tim Nasional Italia Roberto Donadoni untuk memunculkan wajah-wajah baru di skuadnya mulai menunjukkan sinyal positif. Saat menghadapi Afrika Selatan di laga uji coba yang berlangsung di Siena dini hari kemarin, Italia memetik kemenangan 2-0. dua gol kemenangan Italia diborong oleh Cristiano Lucarelli pada babak kedua.

Kemenangan yang diraih Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia) itu, tak lepas dari peran lima pemain debutannya. Yakni Alessandro Gamberini, Alessandro Rosina dan Riccardo Montolivo, dan Andrea Dossena serta Antonio Nocerino yang tampil sebagai pemain pengganti. Kontan, Donadoni kegirangan dengan hasil positif dari eksperimen yang dia lakukan. Terutama keputusannya memainkan lima debutan.

"Mereka tampil baik dan bertanding dengan semangat serta kesatuan yang tepat. Kami sempat mendapatkan masalah saat mereka sulit bekerja sama. Namun, mereka akhirnya menuai apa yang kami tanamkan," ujar Donadoni kepada Channel4.

Donadoni boleh puas dan lega. Tapi, publik dan media menganggap eksperimen yang dilakukan mantan arsitek Livorno itu hanya sia-sia belaka. Mereka menganggap Donadoni hanya membuang kesempatan untuk mempersiapkan skuad utamanya menghadapi laga krusial lawan Skotlandia.

[jeemack]

Dossena Delighted With Italy Debut

Udinese defender Andrea Dossena was overjoyed to have made his Italy debut against South Africa last night and hopes to remain in the international reckoning.

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Dossena was a surprise call-up to the Azzurri squad for the friendly with 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa and impressed after coming on as a second-half substitute.

The 26-year-old made a number of bursting runs down the left-flank and created the first goal for Cristiano Lucarelli with an excellent cross.

“These have been three marvellous days, the best in my entire career,” enthused Dossena. “Now I want to demonstrate to Donadoni that I should stay in his consideration.

“I will return to Udinese and do my utmost for the Bianconeri shirt. Starting on Sunday we have Palermo and we know it will be a hard game.”

Dossena was one of five players to make their Italy debuts in last night’s match in Siena. Alessandro Gamberini, Antonio Nocerino, Riccardo Montolivo and Alessandro Rosina also made their Azzurri bows.

Italy won the game 2-0 thanks to two late headers from Shakhtar Donetsk hitman Cristiano Lucarelli. La Nazionale’s next game is the crunch Euro 2008 qualifier with Scotland in Glasgow on November 17.

[itach1ez]

Scots Euro 2008 dreams crushed by Italy injury time winner

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GLASGOW (AFP) - Scotland's Euro 2008 dreams were cruelly crushed after a 2-1 defeat at home to world champions Italy on Saturday, courtesy of Christian Panucci's injury time winner.

Luca Toni had fired Italy into a second minute lead but Alex McLeish's side battled back bravely and deservedly levelled through captain Barry Ferguson in the second half.

Despite then bombarding Italy in the closing stages it was the visitors who scored the decisive second goal after the regulation 90 minutes had ended to book their own, and France's, place in the finals in Austria and Switzerland next summer.

Italy manager Roberto Donadoni told Italian television station Rai Uno: "We knew it was going to be a physical match given the atmosphere.

"But through their character and desire, the lads were fantastic. They worked so hard, they deserve this. Qualifying for Euro 2008 is amazing. It's something positive after all that happened last week (the death of the Lazio fan)."

Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro: "This was a victory won with the heart. It was difficult to play in this stadium, with that atmosphere it was like a cauldron.

"We played really well and managed to win. We showed once again that we are a strong and compact team and when we need to win we do everything to show that we are the world champions. In Italy we play a high level of football, we've won the Champions League and the World Cup but unfortunately at this moment we are being noticed for something else (Lazio fan death)."

Roared on by a capacity crowd of 51,301 Scotland were looking to achieve the victory which would take them to their first major finals since the 1998 World Cup in France.

Nerves seemed to affect the Scottish players, though, and within two minutes they were trailing.

A quick throw-in caught their defence dozing, allowing Gianluca Zambrotta time to pick out Antonio Di Natale and his low cross was poked high into the roof of the net from close range by Toni.

Italy were threatening to finish Scottish dreams early and Mauro Camoranesi should have at least tested their goalkeeper Craig Gordon in the third minute instead of blasting over from Toni's cross.

Slowly Scotland began to find their feet and forced a series of corners after 15 minutes.

With James McFadden inswinging the corners, captain Ferguson blasted wildly over in the 17th minute his Rangers teammate David Weir was even closer in the 18th minute, sending a glancing header just wide, with Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon beaten.

Scotland tested Buffon for the first time in the 30th minute, with Ferguson's shot forcing the Italian keeper to save low to his left.

There was then a major let-off for Scotland in the 32nd minute.

Gordon made a fantastic one-handed save to prevent Massimo Ambrosini's shot from finding the back of the net and although Di Natale converted the rebound the assistant referee ruled it out for offside - although television replays suggested he was on.

With the final action of the first half only Andrea Pirlo's goalline clearance prevented Scotland equalising after Weir's header, from Ferguson's corner, beat Buffon.

Italy started the second half strongly but in the 64th minute Scotland got back on level terms.

A fine run from right-back Alan Hutton ended in him being fouled on the edge of the area.

James McFadden took the resulting free-kick and his low shot deflected into the path of Lee McCulloch six-yards from goal only for the Rangers midfielder to shoot weakly at Buffon.

However, the Italian keeper somehow spilled the shot and Ferguson slid in to prod the ball into the back of the net.

Scotland were now in the driving seat and McFadden should have tested Buffon in the 78th minute instead of firing into the side net.

And in the 81st minute Kenny Miller, who had replaced Scott Brown in the 74th minute, drove the ball across the face of goal, taking Buffon out of play, but McFadden rushing in at the back post could not turn the ball into the empty net.

But just as it looked as if Scotland would be left relying on Ukraine to beat France on Wednesday they were dealt a killer blow.

Pirlo's cross to the back post was met by Panucci who sent a looping header over the stranded Gordon and into the corner of the net to end Scotland's dreams in the cruellest of ways.

[itach1ez]

Totti Tak Akan Balik ke Timnas

Roma, 21 November 2007 08:06
Kapten AS Roma, Francesco Totti, mengabaikan kembali ke tim nasional (timnas) Italia, meskipun juara dunia tersebut lolos ke Euro 2008.

Pensiunnya Totti sebagai pemain internasional menjadi pokok pembicaraan utama di Italia sejak tim asuhan Roberto Donadoni tampil kurang meyakinkan di awal pertandingan kualifikasi Euro 2008.

Dan bahkan setelah menang 2-1 di Skotlandia, Sabtu (17/11), untuk menjamin tim Azzuri itu lolos ke Austria dan Swiss, Donadoni terus mendapat kecaman karena tidak berbuat sesuatu untuk mempertahankan Totti dan Alessandro Nesta, yang juga pensiun dari sepak bola internasional.

Tetapi, Totti mengatakan kepada Gazzetta dello Sport, ia tidak bermaksud kembali ke sepak bola internasional.

"Saya tahu peraturan grup tersebut dan tanpa mengabaikan rasa hormat pada peraturan itu, dengan menyesal bahwa saya tidak pernah memikirkan kembali ke skuad Azzurri," kata pemain berusia 31 tahun itu.

"Saya mengambil keputusan untuk pensiun dari sepak bola internasional segera setelah final Piala Dunia di Berlin. Federasi (Italia) meminta saya untuk menunda beberapa waktu dan saya mengabulkannya, tetapi di awal musim lalu saya beritahu mereka bahwa saya ingin mundur dan sejak itu saya tidak pernah mempertimbangkan kembali, apakah kami lolos ke Euro 2008 atau tidak," paparnya.

"Hubungan saya dengan Donadoni dan Federasi baik. Saya ingin para mantan teman setim saya berhasil di Kejuaraan Eropa itu," tambahnya.

Donadoni telah menyatakan bahwa Totti dan Nesta akan disambut baik kembali ke skuad tersebut, tetapi menyatakan bahwa keputusan di luar wewenangnya.

"Saya sudah berbuat segala sesuatu yang mungkin," kata Donadoni.

"Bagaimana saya bisa memaksanya untuk kembali ke tim nasional bila mereka tidak termotivasi? Itu tidak akan berhasil!"

"Bila mereka mengubah pendirian mereka, saya akan mendengarkan mereka, tetapi pilihan-pilihan yang pasti pantas dihormati," katanya.

sumber : gatra

[co16cm_mlng]

Buffon: Jangan Remehkan Faroe

Milan - Italia telah memastikan satu tiket ke Euro 2008. Namun Gianluigi Buffon meminta rekan setimnya agar tidak meremehkan Kepulauan Faroe dan memastikan posisi terbaik.

Di atas kertas Italia memang jauh diunggulkan dari Kepulauan Faroe. Jika akhirnya Gli Azzurri menang di Modena, Kamis (22/11/2007) dinihari WIB, maka mereka akan menyelesaikan babak kualifikasi Grup B sebagai pemuncak klasemen.

Kemenangan sepertinya memang hal yang mudah diraih tuan rumah mengingat Kepulauan Faroe belum meraih satu poin pun dan berada di dasar klasemen. Gawang mereka kebobolan 40 kali dari 1 pertandingan. Meski demikian hal itu tak membuat Italia akan bermain setengah hati.

"Dia atas kertas kami akan menghadapi lawan yang lemah, namun untuk menghormati para penonton saya pikir ini sangat penting untuk dapat bermain dengan sikap yang benar," kata Buffon seperti dilansir Goal.

Pernyataan kiper Italia ini juga diamini oleh Luca Toni. Bahkan bagi striker Italia yang kini merumput dengan Bayern Munich, merasa laga ini menjadi sangat penting baginya karena akan bermain di kampung halamannya.

"Kami akan mengakhiri laga ini dengan meyakinkan dan bermain sebaik mungkin. Ini akan menyenangkan jika menang dan finis di depan Prancis, namun pertandingan ini sangat spesial karena saya berasal dari Modena," ujar Toni.

Pelatih Roberto Donadoni kemungkinan besar akan mengistirahatkan beberapa pemain skuad utamanya dalam laga menghadapi Kepulauan Faroe nanti. Namun keputusan Donadoni tersebut dianggap cukup baik bagi Buffon.

"Saya pikir dalam kasus seperti ini adalah hal untuk memikirkan kelompok pemain dan membuat setiap pemain senang. Tidak ada harga apapun yang harus dibayar jika hanya duduk di luar untuk sebuah sportifitas," pungkasnya.

[itach1ez]

Second-string Italy cruise to Faroes win

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MODENA, Italy (AFP) - World champions Italy eased to a 3-1 victory against minnows Faroe Islands in a Euro 2008 qualifier here on Wednesday.

In a game that had nothing resting on it following Italy's weekend win in Glasgow, which secured their passage to Austria and Switzerland next year, both players and fans seemed subdued.

Italy coach Roberto Donadoni had selected a largely second-string outfit and they took their time to gel before opening the scoring in the 10th minute.

Three minutes earlier Frooi Benjaminsen had come to the visitors' rescue with a last ditched block to deny Simone Perrotta but when AC Milan full-back Massimo Oddo scampered down the right, the centre-back inadvertently turned the subsequent cross into his own net.

Five minutes later Faroes goalkeeper and captain Jakup Mikkelsen made a sprawling save to deny Bayern Munich's Luca Toni as Italy dictated proceedings.

They didn't have it all their own way, though, as Rogvi Jacobsen put the ball in their net on 34 minutes, only for his effort to be ruled out for a foul - even the home fans seemed slightly disappointed by that outcome.

Only two more minutes passed, though, before Toni doubled the advantage with a smart turn and volley from Fabio Grosso's left-wing centre.

Four minutes before the break Juventus centre-back Giorgio Chiellini scored his first goal for his country in only his ninth appearance, slashing home a scorcher from 25 yards after striding up from the back.

However, the Faroes proved a muscular presence and were disciplined in tracking back, exploiting the shortcomings of a weakened Italy side missing the likes of Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo, Mauro Camorenesi and Gianluca Zambrotta.

Five minutes after the break the Faroes came close to scoring as Suni Olsen, who plays in Denmark, fired a dipping free-kick inches over the bar.

If Italy's foot was only barely touching the accelerator in the first period, it came completely off it in the second, leaving the fans to amuse themselves by jumping up and down and chanting a song mocking France.

By now the momentum had firmly swung towards the visitors.

Jacobsen twice threatened to force Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia, playing in place of Gianluigi Buffon, into warming his hands, but he missed the target on both occasions when well placed.

Italy failed to heed the warnings and Jacobsen got the goal he deserved - and a round of applause from home fans - six minutes from the end when he headed home Johan Davidsen's deep right-wing cross into the top corner, leaving Amelia helpless.

And he almost added a second, hitting the post with a firm downward header in the last minute.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 22 Nov 2007,
Il Capitano Tak Berhasrat Comeback


ROMA - Kabar kembalinya Francesco Totti ke arena internasional tiba-tiba santer berembus di Italia. Itu terjadi seiring sukses skuad Azzurri -julukan Timnas Italia- menembus putaran final Euro 2008. Il Capitano AS Roma itu disebut-sebut berkeinginan mengenakan kostum Azzurri dan tampil di Austria-Swiss Juni tahun depan.

Semula, Totti bersikap cuek dengan klaim yang sumbernya tidak jelas tersebut. Tapi, lama-kelamaan suami Ilary Blasi itu jadi risih juga. Totti akhirnya mengadakan jumpa pers untuk membantah rumor tersebut kemarin (21/11). "Saya sudah mengambil keputusan (mundur) dari tim nasional setelah Piala Dunia 2006. Sejak mengumumkan pensiun, sedikit pun tidak tebersit di benakku untuk kembali. Terlepas, Italia lolos atau tidak ke putaran final Euro 2008," tegas Totti seperti dilansir Reuters.

Sebagai catatan, Totti resmi menarik diri dari panggung internasional sejak akhir Juli lalu. Ketika memaparkan keputusannya pensiun dari Azzurri, Totti berkilah bahwa kondisi kesehatan menjadi alasan utamanya. Dia mengaku tidak bisa berkompromi dengan kondisi engkelnya yang dipasangi plat logam. Alasan itu sempat direspons sinis oleh sebagian kalangan. Sebab, faktanya, Totti tetap bisa tampil maksimal bagi AS Roma sepanjang musim kemarin. Bahkan, dia berhasil merebut predikat capocannonieri (pencetak gol terbanyak) setelah melesakkan 26 gol di ajang Serie A.

"Saya tahu betul aturan yang berlaku dan sangat menghormatinya. Saya tegaskan sekali lagi bahwa saya sama sekali tak berhasrat untuk kembali. Saya berharap, rekan-rekanku mampu mempersembahkan yang terbaik di putaran final Euro 2008," ujarnya.

Selain hangat memperbincangkan rumor comeback-nya Totti tersebut, topik yang paling menyita perhatian publik Italia saat ini adalah kepastian nasib Alessandro Del Piero. Tukang gedor Juventus tersebut mulai kesulitan mendapat tempat sebagai starter di Azzurri.

Puncaknya terjadi menjelang berakhirnya kualifikasi Euro 2008. Alex -sapaan Del Piero- terpental dari daftar pemain yang dipanggil allenatore Roberto Donadoni. Alex harus gigit jari karena Donadoni lebih suka memakai tenaga gelandang serang Udinese Antonio Di Natale yang bisa beroperasi di sayap daripada Alex yang hanya suka diposisikan sebagai tukang gedor atau penyerang lubang.

Polemik soal penempatan posisi itulah yang menyebabkan timbulnya friksi antara Alex dengan Donadoni. Gara-gara konflik tersebut, muncul rumor bahwa pintu kembali ke Azzurri tertutup rapat-rapat bagi Alex. "Saya tidak pernah berkata seperti itu. Masih ada harapan bagi Del Piero dan juga Antonio Cassano untuk berkostum Azzurri lagi. Semuanya tergantung kepada mereka," tegas Donadoni dalam sesi wawancara dengan Radio Rai.

[Ethuang]

Jum'at, 30/11/2007
Totti Berniat Kembali Perkuat Italia


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ROMA - Francesco Totti mungkin akan kembali memperkuat Timnas Italia di ajang Euro 2008. Asalkan, Azzurri mengalami krisis pemain karena mengalami cedera.
Kapten Tim AS Roma itu, memang telah mengumumkan pengunduran dirinya tidak lama setelah memperkuat Azzurri di ajang Piala Dunia 2006 lalu.
Meskipun, dirinya sempat mengatakan tidak akan pernah kembali memperkuat timnas Italia lagi, namun Totti mengaku masih bernafsu bermain di turnamen yang akan berlangsung di Austria-Swiss itu.
Namun, menggantikan pemain yang cedera sepertinya menjadi satu-satunya kondisi yang memungkinkan Totti kembali membela tim asuhan Roberto Donadoni itu. Pasalnya, dia menolak menggusur posisi pemain lain.
"Sekitar 22 sampai 24 pemain yang telah membawa Italia lolos ke putaran final Euro 2008 akan pergi. Jika saya mengambil tempat seseorang, itu tidak akan baik," ungkap pemain berusia 31 tahun itu.
"Namun, jika Italia mengalami krisis pemain karena cedera, maka saya siap kembali ke Azzurri," lanjut suami dari Hillary Blasi itu kepada majalah GQ.
Totti mulai membela Italia tahun 1998 dan kini telah mengantungi 58 caps plus sumbangan sembilan gol.

[reza16cm]

Totti Bantah Akan KembalI Perkuat Italia


Penyerang AS Roma Francesco Totti membantah laporan yang menyatakan ia siap kembali memperkuat Italia dan mengatakan komentar yang ia buat itu telah salah diartikan.
Totti telah memutuskan untuk pensiun memperkuat Italia sesaat setelah membawa Gli Azzurri meraih gelar Piala Dunia 2006 lalu.

Namun dalam wawancaranya dengan majalah GQ, Totti membuat pernyataan menghebohkan dengan mengungkapkan bila ia bersedia kembali memperkuat Italia di EURO 2008.

Totti siap membatalkan keputusan pensiunnya jika pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni membutuhkan tenaganya karena banyak pemain depan yang cedera.

Akan tetapi dengan cepat Totti langsung membantah kabar tersebut dan mengatakan ucapannya hanya lelucon saja.

"Saya mengatakan itu untuk bercanda jika saya pergi ke EURO 2008 itu bila semua penyerang mengalami cedera. Saya hanya menjawab pertanyaan lelucon dan jadinya saya memberikan jawaban lelucon juga," ujar Totti kepada La Gazzetta dello Sport.

[jilat_meki]

Domenech Tells Italy: I’m Not Talking For Six Months

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France national team boss Raymond Domenech has told Italy that he will not speak about them again until the two teams meet in Euro 2008, although he did declare the Azzurri as favourites for the tournament

The controversial tactician is number one enemy in the Italian peninsula after a long-line of derogatory remarks about the Azzurri over the past decade.

The intense rivalry between Italy and France is set to be taken to another level next summer after the two teams were drawn in the same group for Euro 2008.

In the post-draw press conference yesterday, Domenech stormed out in fury and accused Italian journalists of trying to provoke him by asking him questions about Marco Materazzi.

Les Bleus boss has explained his reasons for taking such a course of action, and says he will not be talking about Italy until the two sides meet in Zurich on June 17.

“I left the press conference yesterday in order not to answer the questions of the Italian journalists,” Domenech told L’Equipe.

“From now I will not speak about Italy until the day of our meeting. They remain the favourites for Euros as they won the World Cup.”

Whether Domenech can resist talking about Italy for the next six-and-a-half months remains to be seen, but I’m sure we will soon find out.

[jilat_meki]

Cassano To Donadoni: I Will Convince You

Sampdoria enigma Antonio Cassano has told Roberto Donadoni that he hopes to convince him to take him to Euro 2008.

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The former Roma star is one of the most naturally gifted players that the Italian game has produced in years, however his wild personality means he has never fulfilled his prodigious talent.

Cassano has fallen out with virtually every coach he has ever played under, and he has also struggled recently with his weight and fitness.

However on Sunday, Fantantonio produced possibly the best individual performance of the day during Sampdoria’s 3-0 win over Reggina.

The 25-year-old was at times unplayable, going on numerous mazy runs and creating Claudio Bellucci’s opener with an exquisite pass.

“For sure Donadoni would have been happy with how I played,” said Cassano.

“If he decides to call me I will be so happy. In my head I have only one objective – to get myself into top condition – the rest will follow as a consequence.”

Cassano, who was substituted on 65 minutes, still demonstrated his character flaws, by hurling foul language at the referee and Reggina Coach Renzo Ulivier after he was denied a second-half penalty.

Carlo Garganese

[jilat_meki]

Taddei Set For Italy Call-Up?

Roma winger Rodrigo Taddei could follow in the footsteps of Mauro Camoranesi and become the second naturalised Italian in recent times to be called up for the national team.

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The 27-year-old is one of the best wide-men in Serie A and marked his comeback from injury with the winner against Udinese on Sunday.

Taddei grew up in Sao Paulo and is Brazilian by birth, however he also holds Italian citizenship and is eligible to play for the Azzurri because he has never been capped by the Selecao.

Italian national team staff member and all-time Azzurri top-scorer Luigi Riva confirmed that Taddei may receive a call.

“We follow all Italian football players and all footballers in our championship,” Rombo di Tuono told Il Romanista.

“Euro 2008 is many months away so it is premature to talk about what players will be taken [to Austris and Switzerland].

“However in the case with Taddei and the Azzurri I can say I exclude nothing.”

The issue of calling up Oriundi (foreign-born Italian nationals, particularly from South America) has been a contentious issue in Italy for a number of years, and indeed the decision to call up the Argentine-born Mauro Camoranesi was heavily criticised in many quarters.

Italy’s 1934 World Cup-winners famously had a large number of Oriundi in their squad including the talented Luis Monti and Raimundo Orsi.

Carlo Garganese

[jilat_meki]

Lippi To Be Offered England Job - Report

The English FA are set to offer Marcello Lippi the national team manager’s job, according to the Corriere dello Sport.

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The 59-year-old has been out of work since resigning as boss of the Azzurri following the World Cup triumph in Germany last summer.

According to the ‘Corriere’, an FA representative flew out to Italy to discuss personal terms with Lippi, before coming to an initial agreement with him.

Until now Lippi was not considered as that high up on the English FA’s shortlist, mainly due to the fact that he does not speak English.

Ex-Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is the favourite with the bookmakers, and when asked yesterday if he would take the job, he replied “why not”.

The only high-profile candidate to so far declare that they want the position is former Real Madrid, Roma, Milan and Juventus tactician Fabio Capello.

Reports in the English press suggest that a new manager to replace the sacked Steve McClaren will be in place before the New Year.

The Three Lions failed to qualify for Euro 2008 after an embarrassing 3-2 home defeat to Croatia at Wembley in their final qualifier.

Roberto Perfumo

[jeemack]

Lippi To Be Offered England Job - Report

The English FA are set to offer Marcello Lippi the national team manager’s job, according to the Corriere dello Sport.

http://www.goal.com/images/24947_news.jpg

The 59-year-old has been out of work since resigning as boss of the Azzurri following the World Cup triumph in Germany last summer.

According to the ‘Corriere’, an FA representative flew out to Italy to discuss personal terms with Lippi, before coming to an initial agreement with him.

Until now Lippi was not considered as that high up on the English FA’s shortlist, mainly due to the fact that he does not speak English.

Ex-Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is the favourite with the bookmakers, and when asked yesterday if he would take the job, he replied “why not”.

The only high-profile candidate to so far declare that they want the position is former Real Madrid, Roma, Milan and Juventus tactician Fabio Capello.

Reports in the English press suggest that a new manager to replace the sacked Steve McClaren will be in place before the New Year.

The Three Lions failed to qualify for Euro 2008 after an embarrassing 3-2 home defeat to Croatia at Wembley in their final qualifier.

Roberto Perfumo


WAAH JANGAN MAU OM LIPPI JADI MANAJER INGGRIS....!! KALAHAN...!! :p :p

[steve-x]

Vieri Masih Berharap Dipanggil Timnas


http://www.wldcup.com/pictures/euro2004/gallery/jun09/vieri-tatouages-i.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:var width=383;var height=409;var left=(screen.availWidth-width)/2;var top=(screen.availHeight-height)/2;var win=window.open('/pictures/euro2004/gallery/jun09/vieri-tatouages-g.jpg','Preview','location=no,status=no,toolbar=no ,scrollbars=no,width='+width+',height='+height+',l eft='+left+',top='+top+''))

Penyerang veteran Christian Vieri mengaku masih berharap untuk memperkuat tim nasional Italia guna tampil di Euro 2008.
Pemain gaek berusia 34 tahun itu sudah absen membela Italia sejak tahun 2004, khususnya karena lebih banyak diganggu cedera. Namun Vieri kini mulai menemukan kembali performa terbaiknya bersama Fiorentina sehingga berharap akan dipanggil pelatih Roberto Donadoni untuk tampil di Austria-Swiss mendatang.
"Saya sudah bekerja keras sejak bulan Juli lalu agar bsia kembali ke tim nasional. Saya masih menunggu panggilan dari Donadoni," kata Vieri kepada stasiun televisi Tg2.
Kendati tampil baik bersama Fiorentina, Vieri sendiri jarang menjadi starter dan selama 18 pertandingan musim ini tak pernah main penuh 90 menit. Sebanyak 12 pertandingan dilakoni sebagai pengganti dan enam kali digantikan pemain lain.
Vieri sendiri mengaku mendapat dukungan dari mantan pelatih AC Milan, AS Roma dan Real Madrid, Fabio Capello. "Dia bilang saya sudah pantas kembali ke timnas dan saya sependapat dengannya. Yang terpenting untuk saya adalah bermain dan mencetak gol agar bisa mengenakan seragam biru Italia lagi," imbuhnya.
Sejauh ini, Vieri baru mengemas lima gol dan Fiorentina masih menunggu gol-gol tambahan darinya untuk membantu klub menghapus tiga kekalahan dan satu imbang di empat partai terakhir.

[s4suk3]

'Cassano Mampu Kembali ke Timnas'

Genoa - Meski tak mampu membawa Sampdoria menang atas Udinese, Antonio Cassano tampil memikat. Kalau bisa terus konsisten, Cassano pun diyakini mantan bosnya, Fabio Capello, dapat kembali ke timnas Italia.

Il Samp harus menelan kekalahan 1-2 dari Udinese, Minggu (9/12/2007), di mana satu-satunya gol Sampdoria dalam pertandingan itu lahir berkat assist Cassano. Partai itu menjadi ketiga kalinya secara beruntun Italiano 25 tahun tersebut menjadi starter di Seri A.

Dari tiga penampilan tersebut, performa Cassano tampaknya sudah mulai nyetel. Kalau melawan Catania pada 28 Oktober lalu dia belum memberikan kontribusi apa-apa, pada dua laga selanjutnya masing-masing satu assist dikemasnya --termasuk ketika menghadapi Udinese.

"Kalau Cassano terus tampil seperti ini dia bukan hanya akan jadi pemain penting buat Sampdoria tapi juga tak bakal dilepas oleh Azzuri. Di Italia tak banyak penyerang yang mampu mengecoh lawan di kotak penalti. Saya sudah melihat Cassano menurunkan berat badan dan bugar sehingga dia bisa mencapai tingkatan di mana dia akan jadi penting buat negaranya," dukung Capello dilansir Channel 4, Senin (10/12/2007).

Cassano pernah jadi anak kesayangan Capello di AS Roma, di mana keduanya meraih sukses bersama-sama. Ketika Don Capello hijrah ke Real Madrid, keduanya kembali bekerjasama kendati kali ini hubungan keduanya tidak semesra di Italia.

Secara keseluruhan Cassano baru mengemas satu gol dan dua assist buat Sampdoria semenjak dipinjamkan Real Madrid pada musim panas ini.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 12 Des 2007,
Vieri-Cassano Usik Donadoni


ROMA - Sejak ditunjuk sebagai pelatih Timnas Italia, Roberto Donadoni cenderung melakukan penyegaran materi pemain. Tak sedikit pemain muda atau mereka yang belum pernah membela Azzurri menikmati debutnya di era Donadoni. Nah, publik Italia pun kini mulai bertanya, dengan seringnya Donadoni memakai pemain muda, apakah dia sudah menutup pintu buat pemain-pemain senior?

Pertanyaan itu mulai muncul lantaran beberapa pemain yang sudah melewati usia emas masih menunjukkan penampilan prima musim ini. Salah satunya adalah Christian Vieri. Bomber Fiorentina yang sudah berusia 34 tahun tersebut kembali menunjukkan ketajamannya lewat sumbangan lima gol di berbagai ajang. Vieri pun menyimpan keinginan untuk kembali bergabung bersama Azzurri di bawah komando Donadoni.

"Apakah saya sedang menunggu dihubungi bos Donadoni? Tidak, saya sedang menunggu untuk dipilih masuk skuad Azzurri," ujar Vieri kepada Channel4 seolah menegaskan keinginannya itu.

Pemain yang pernah memperkuat Atalanta, Juventus, Lazio, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan, dan AS Monaco tersebut memang sudah kenyang pengalaman bersama Timnas Italia. Dia sudah 49 kali membela Italia dan telah melesakkan 23 gol.

Vieri, yang belum pernah membela negaranya sejak 2005, semakin yakin bahwa dirinya bisa meyakinkan Donadoni setelah mendapat dukungan dari Fabio Capello. Menurut mantan pelatih Real Madrid itu, Vieri dianggap masih layak tampil di arena internasional. "Capello mengatakan bahwa sebenarnya saya memang siap (untuk Italia). Kini, penting bagi saya untuk bermain dan mencetak gol secara reguler. Itulah yang saya butuhkan untuk mendapatkan tempat di timnas," paparnya.

Pelatihnya di Fiorentina, Cesare Prandelli, juga menjadi salah seorang pendukungnya. "Jika Vieri mampu menjaga kerja keras seperti yang ditunjukkannya saat ini, dia akan kembali berbaju timnas dalam beberapa bulan," timpal Prandelli.

Sejauh ini, Donadoni belum mengomentari Vieri. Tapi, sejak menggantikan Marcello Lippi setelah Piala Dunia 2006, dia selalu terbuka menerima kehadiran pemain yang dianggap masih potensial. Hal itu pula yang membuat Antonio Cassano tidak putus harapan untuk kembali mengenakan kostum Azzurri.

"Penting bagi saya untuk menjaga kondisi. Saya tahu kemampuan saya. Jika saya sedang fit, saya tak akan berpikir memiliki masalah," ujar Cassano yang musim ini membela Sampdoria.

Kedekatan Cassano dengan Donadoni dinilai akan banyak memengaruhi keputusannya kembali memperkuat Azzurri. Cassano mengakui, dia memiliki hubungan yang baik dengan Donadoni. Bahkan, saat Italia berhasil melalui babak kualifikasi, pemain berusia 25 tahun tersebut mengirimkan pesan pendek berupa ucapan selamat untuk Donadoni.

"Yang saya lakukan itu bukan untuk memengaruhi pemanggilan pemain untuk Euro dan saya tak menjilat kepada siapa pun," ujarnya.

[Ethuang]

Kamis, 20/12/2007
Donadoni Ajukan Perpanjangan Kontrak


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ROMA - Usai sukses meloloskan Italia ke putaran final Piala Eropa 2008, Roberto Donadoni kini bersiap memperpanjang kontraknya sebagai pelatih tim nasional Azzurri. Rencananya, Donadoni akan melakukan pembicaraan dengan Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) untuk membahas rencana perpanjangan kontrak itu.

Roberto Donadoni mengatakan akan melakukan pembicaraan perpanjangan kontrak dengan FIGC sebelum Euro 2008 dimulai. Padahal, sesuai kesepakatan sebelumnya, pembicaraan perpanjangan kontrak baru akan dilakukan selepas Juni 2008 atau setelah Italia tampil di Euro 2008 di Austria dan Swiss.

"FIGC akan mengklarifikasi situasi kontrak saya sebelum final Euro. Ini sangat logis. Giancarlo Abate, presiden FIGC, sangat peduli dan setuju dengan logika berpikir saya," ujar Donadoni seperti dilansir Goal, Kamis (20/12/2007)

Donadoni berharap tidak ada kesulitan dalam pembicaraan ini. Ia juga menegaskan pembicaraan tanggung jawab kontrak akan berlangsung dengan sikap saling menghormati.

Sejak mengambil alih kursi pelatih dari Marcello Lippi, Donadoni selalu berada dalam tekanan. Sepanjang kualifikasi Euro 2008, penampilan Italia tidak konsisten dan harus meraih tiket dengan susah payah dan keberuntungan.

Namun sesuatu terjadi dengan pelatih yang masih kurang berpengalaman ini. Fabio Capello, pelatih yang dianggap paling berpotensi untuk memimpin Italia, menyatakan tidak pernah tertarik menangani Azzurri dan memilih kursi pelatih Inggris.

Menjawab pertanyaan wartawan mengenai seleksi pemain yang akan dibawa ke Euro 2008, Donadoni mengatakan masih terus mengamati kebangkitan Antonio Cassano di Sampdoria.

"Saya hanya bisa menyebut beberapa nama yang akan bersama kami ke Euro 2008. Jika mereka terus menunjukkan kemajuan di sejumlah pertandingan, mereka tidak akan kehilangan tempat," jelasnya.

Donadoni juga mengatakan yang terpenting bagi pemain adalah mempertahankan konsistensi. Itu bisa membuat mereka punya kans dipertahankan sebagai pemain anggota skuad Azzurri ke putaran final Euro tahun depan.

[steve-x]

Harapan 2008 Donadoni

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Roma - Tahun 2007 tinggal berusia beberapa hari saja. Menjelang tahun baru, tentu banyak harapan dimiliki setiap orang. Termasuk juga Roberto Donadoni. Apa asa allenatore Italia itu?

Donadoni melewati tahun 2007 dengan berbagai catatan. Meski awalnya sempat diragukan, allenatore itu toh akhirnya berhasil membawa Italia lolos untuk berlaga di putaran final Euro 2008 yang akan dilangsungkan di Austria dan Swiss musim panas mendatang.

"Lolos ke (putaran) final Euro adalah satu pencapaian yang baik," ujar Donadoni kepada RAI sebagaimana dikutip Football Italia. "Namun kami harus menatap ke depan. Kami berada di grup sulit di Euro. Tapi kita harus total demi seragam Azzuri."

Kalimat Donadoni memang benar. Tergabung bersama Prancis, Belanda dan Rumania di Grup C bukanlah sebuah undian yang bagus. Selain Italia, Prancis juga sudah pernah merengkuh gelar juara dunia serta juara Eropa. Sedangkan Belanda dikenal sangat ofensif, sementara Rumania adalah tipikal tim Eropa timur yang siap menyengat mereka yang lengah.

Karena itulah, Donadoni lantas menuturkan harapannya di tahun mendatang. "Hidup harus dijalani secara berkualitas. Di dunia ini, kesehatan adalah hal yang mendasar. Karena itu, saya berharap seluruh pemain akan mendapat tahun penuh kesehatan," terang lelaki kelahiran 44 tahun yang lalu itu.

Harapan Donadoni tentu bukan tanpa alasan. Menjalani turnamen yang berat, eks bintang lapangan AC Milan itu tentu ingin punggawa-punggawanya bebas sakit dan cedera sehingga bisa membawa Italia meraih prestasi tertinggi.

"Hanya dengan kesehatanlah, para pemain bisa menunjukkan kualitas mereka secara penuh," tuntasnya.

[s4suk3]

Donadoni Tidak Tertekan


Melalui sebuah wawancara dengan Euronews, pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni membantah spekulasi kalau dirinya mendapat tekanan untuk memilih beberapa pemain tertentu.
Di dalam acara tersebut, Donadoni juga membicarakan perselisihannya dengan pelatih Prancis Raymond Domenech serta opininya terhadap pelatih baru Inggris Fabio Capello.

"Saya tidak pernah tertekan untuk memilih sejumlah pemain tertentu bagi timnas. Apabila saya mendapatkannya maka hal itu tidak akan menyenangkan," tukasnya.

Ditanya mengenai provokasi yang dilakukan oleh Domenech, Donadoni secara bijak tidak ingin menanggapinya lebih jauh.

Domenech adalah figur yang paling dibenci di Italia setelah membuat sejumlah penghinaan terhadap Gli Azzurri, termasuk mengklaim kalau Italia mengatur partai U-21 melawan Prancis di tahun 1999, ketika Domenech masih menangani Prancis U-21.

"Saya tidak tahu apakah Domenech mengatakan sesuatu yang benar, hal itu tergantung bagaimana anda menyikapinya," ujar Donadoni yang mengacu kepada klaim Domenech kalau wasit dalam pertandingan kala itu telah disuap.

"Anda juga dapat mengatakan hal-hal penting namun itu harus didukung oleh fakta yang konkrit. Apabila anda terbangun di pagi hari dan mulai membicarakan tentang kelaparan di dunia, anda adalah orang yang baik. Namun kita harus melihat apa yang anda lakukan tentang hal itu," tambahnya.

Legenda AC Milan tersebut juga ditanya apakah ia akan memberikan saran apapun kepada Capello.

"Saya tidak terbiasa menawarkan saran kepada seseorang yang meraih kesuksesan lebih banyak dibandingkan saya.

"Saya pikir semua orang memiliki kemungkinan untuk mempelajari sesuatu, untuk itu kami dapat belajar apapun dengan melihat Capello," tukas Donadoni.

[s4suk3]

Amauri Pertimbangkan Perkuat Italia


Penyerang Palermo asal Brasil Amauri de Carvalho mempertimbangkan memperkuat tim nasional Italia setelah pelatih Gli Azzurri Roberto Donadoni siap memberikan tempat baginya di EURO 2008.
Amauri bermain gemilang bersama Palermo dan hingga saat ini telah melesakkan tujuh gol. Amauri juga diminati oleh dua klub elit Italia seperti AC Milan dan Juventus.

Kebetulan Amauri hingga saat ini belum pernah memperkuat tim nasional Brasil dan ia pun memenuhi persyaratan untuk memiliki paspor Italia sehingga dapat membela timnas Gli Azzurri.

"Segera ia akan menjadi pemain Italia, kami akan membicarakan hal itu. Kami pastinya tidak akan melupakan dirinya," ujar Donadoni dalam keterangannya.

Pernyataan ini langsung disambut gembira oleh Amauri dan ia siap berganti kewarganegaraan karena selama ini gagal mendapat tempat di timnas Brasil akibat kalah bersaing dengan Ronaldinho, Vagner Love hingga Robinho.

"Saya sungguh senang mendengar Donadoni berpikir mengenai saya untuk EURO 2008. Tetapi saya masih belum memiliki paspor Italia," tukas Amauri.

[spoitzh]

thanks 4 sharing bro...

:)

forza azzuri...

[DORCE]

Amauri Menuju Azzurri

Kabar Amauri Carvalho de Oliveira membela tim nasional Italia sudah lama muncul. Akhir pekan lalu, posisi penyerang Palermo asal Brasil ini semakin dekat pada Gli Azzurri.

http://www.bolanews.com/edisi-cetak/iic.jpg
Amauri, disukai Gainluigi Buffon.
Dua orang penting di La Nazionale menyatakan ketertarikan pada Amauri, yang dapat membela Italia karena belum pernah memperkuat timnas Brasil. Dua orang itu adalah pelatih Roberto Donadoni dan kiper Gianluigi Buffon.

“Saya tidak dapat mengabaikannya,” ujar Donadoni, seperti dikutip Datasport.

“Melihat talenta yang dimiliki dan penampilannya, dia jelas termasuk salah satu penyerang terbaik di Serie A. Siapa pun yang berhasil mengontraknya akan mendapat tambahan besar. Dia akan bagus untuk timnas bersama Luca Toni, Fabio Quagliarella, dan Alberto Gilardino,” ujar Buffon.

Dalam waktu dekat, Amauri akan mendapatkan paspor Italia. Bomber berusia 27 tahun ini telah mengajukan permintaan memperoleh paspor Italia. Si penyerang telah memenuhi syarat, yakni tinggal di Italia selama lebih dari lima tahun.

Para pengamat di Italia melihat Amauri sebagai alternatif terbaik untuk Toni. Amauri dinilai ada di atas Gilardino, yang sejak musim lalu tak sukses bersama Milan.

Tetap di Palermo

Amauri datang ke Italia pada tahun 2001. Parma menggaetnya dari Bellizona (Swiss), tapi tak lama kemudian meminjamkan pemain kelahiran Carapicuiba ini ke Napoli. Setelah berbaju Piacenza dan Messina, Amauri meroket bersama Chievo. Pada Agustus 2006, Palermo membeli si bomber dengan nilai transfer delapan juta euro.

Pada tahun pertama di Palermo, Amauri langsung tajam. Ia mencetak delapan gol dalam 18 laga Serie A sampai Desember 2006. Ketajamannya terhenti karena cedera lutut. Ia kembali bermain pada musim ini. Ia sudah mengemas tujuh gol.

Kembali beraksi dan langsung memperlihatkan ketajaman, Amauri diminati dua klub elite, Juventus dan Milan.

“Sebuah kehormatan dikaitkan dengan dua klub besar seperti Milan dan Juventus. Itu menjadi sumber motivasi untuk terus tampil bagus. Meski demikian, saya tak akan meninggalkan Palermo pada Januari ini. Tunggu dan lihat apa yang terjadi pada Juni nanti,” papar Amauri.

[Ethuang]

Jumat, 11 Jan 2008,
Sinyal Gabung Azzurri


Donadoni Beri Ruang untuk Cassano dan Amauri
ROMA - Persaingan lini depan Tim Nasional Italia di Euro 2008 bakal makin ketat. Luca Toni, Alberto Gilardino, Vincenzo Iaquinta, Filippo Inzaghi, hingga Antonio Di Natale bakal mendapat saingan baru.

Itu seiring dengan sinyal pelatih Gli Azzurri (julukan Timnas Italia) Roberto Donadoni yang membuka kesempatan bagi Antonio Cassano dan Amauri.

Dua penyerang tersebut memang tidak tampil di kualifikasi Euro lalu karena berbagai alasan. Cassano yang sebenarnya sudah berkostum Azzurri sejak 2003 itu tersandung masalah indisipliner. Penyerang 25 tahun tersebut kembali menunjukkan aksi gemilang bersama Sampdoria musim ini setelah sebelumnya menjalani masa suram di Real Madrid.

Hal tersebut berbeda dengan Amauri yang memang tengah dalam proses naturalisasi sebagai warga negara Italia. Ya, penyerang Palermo itu sebenarnya memiliki darah Brazil. Kasus Amauri mengingatkan kepada gelandang Juventus Mauro Camoranesi yang memilih berkostum Italia sekalipun keturunan Argentina.

Musim ini Amauri memang tampil impresif bersama klubnya. Tak heran, AC Milan dan AS Roma berniat menggaetnya dari Palermo. "Segera setelah Amauri menjadi pemain Italia, kami akan mendiskusikan apakah dia bisa memperkuat timnas atau tidak," kata Donadoni kepada Sportinglife.

Terkait dengan Cassano, Donadoni percaya bahwa pemain berjuluk Peter Pan tersebut bisa kembali dalam permainan terbaiknya sebagaimana masih di Bari atau AS Roma. Sementara, menyangkut sifat bengal dan semau gue dari pemain ber-caps 10 itu, Donadoni tidak mempermasalahkan. "Cassano tahu bahwa dia kini sudah mencapai level 90 persen. Mengenai kelakuan dan team work, itu bisa diatasi," tandas mantan bintang AC Milan tersebut.

Tak hanya Cassano dan Amauri yang diberi kesempatan unjuk gigi oleh Donadoni. Striker veteran Juventus Alessandro "Alex" Del Piero masih dilirik mantan pelatih Livorno itu. Alex yang kini berusia 33 tahun tersebut dianggap masih memiliki nilai plus baik dari segi jam terbang maupun kemampuannya bermain di beberapa posisi.

Di Euro 2008, sang juara dunia Italia tergabung di grup C yang diklaim sebagai grup neraka. Sebab, Azzurri harus bersaing dengan mantan juara -seperti Prancis dan Belanda- serta kuda hitam Rumania. Sebelum bertolak ke Austria-Swiss, pasukan Donadoni diagendakan beruji coba dengan dua negara tangguh, Portugal dan Spanyol. "Seluruh negara di grup kami adalah favorit," ujar Donadoni.

[Ethuang]

Kualifikasi PD 2010
Siprus Lawan Pertama Gli Azzurri


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SOFIA - Juara dunia Piala Dunia 2006 Italia akan berhadapan dengan Siprus, pada laga awal kualifikasi Piala Dunia 2010. Laga tersebut akan digelar pada Sabtu (6/9/2008).

Jadwal tersebut diumumkan Federasi Sepakbola Bulgaria (BFF), Selasa (15/1/2008). Hasil itu diperoleh dari negosiasi antara manajer Azzurri Roberto Donadoni, dan manajer Georgia Klaus Toppmoeller.

Empat hari setelah melawan siprus, Donadoni akan membawa pasukannya melawan Georgia pada Selasa (10/1/2008). Italia yang tergabung dalam Grup 8 setelah itu akan meladeni Bulgaria, pada Sabtu (11/10/2008). Lawan yang kemudian akan menunggu Italia selanjutnya adalah Irlandia, yang akan saling berhadapan pada (1/4/2009).

"Ini grup yang cukup sulit. Selain Bulgaria lawan sulit akan datang dari Irlandia, terutama Montenegro yang mempunyai sejarah dimana pemainnya bermain di liga-liga top Eropa," ungkap Donadoni.

[Ethuang]

Peluang Emas Cassano & Del Piero


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ROMA - Kesempatan untuk membela Timnas Italia rupanya masih terbuka lebar untuk nama Antonio Cassano dan Alessandro Del Piero. Pelatih Azzurri Roberto Donadoni, menyatakan ingin mempercayakan kembali tenaga dua pemain yang pernah dibuangnya itu.

Roberto Donadoni menyatakan bersedia memberi kesempatan bagi Cassano dan Del Piero buat kembali mengenakan kostum Azzurri. Donadoni mengaku terkesan dengan penampilan cemerlang Cassano dan Del Piero di kompetisi Serie A musim ini.

"Cassano melakukan sesuatu yang luar biasa di Sampdoria. Cassano yang saya lihat bukanlah Cassano beberapa tahun lalu," ujar Donadoni seperti dikutip surat kabar La Gazzetta dello Sport, Kamis (17/1/2008).

Cassano menjadi inspirator kemenangan Sampdoria atas Palermo dengan skor 3-0 diakhir pekan lalu. Donadoni sendiri menyaksikan pertandingan itu.

"Apabila dia bermain seperti itu terus menerus, kami tentu memasukkannya lagi ke dalam tim yang akan kami bawa ke Euro 2008," jelas Donadoni.

Nama lainnya yang menarik perhatian Donadoni adalah Alessandro Del Piero, yang mencetak gol lewat titik penalti untuk menyelematkan Juventus dari kekalahan di kandang Catania.

Untuk Del Piero, Donadoni mengatakan; ''Saya menyukai sikapnya. Dia striker kedua yang baik. Inilah saatnya untuk mempertimbangkannya sebaik mungkin.''

Sikap lain Del Piero yang dipuji Donadoni adalah kebiasannya mengkritik keputusan taktis yang diambil pelatih Azzurri. Del Piero memberikan kritik itu dengan baik, dan semua argumennya sangat rasional dan Donadoni pun menghormatinya.

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[Ethuang]

Senin, 21 Jan 2008,
Bisa Berlanjut hingga Piala Dunia 2010


ROMA - Roberto Donadoni menghadapi situasi sulit di awal tugasnya sebagai pelatih Tim Nasional Italia. Pelatih yang menggantikan posisi Marcello Lippi sesudah putaran final Piala Dunia 2006 itu harus menghadapi tekanan dari media dan publik setelah skuad Azzurri yang dia tangani tampil memble di awal kualifikasi Euro 2008. Donadoni bahkan nyaris didepak seandainya Italia gagal mengalahkan Skotlandia di laga terakhir babak kualifikasi Euro 2008.

Nah, setelah Italia sukses mengalahkan Skotlandia yang sekaligus memastikan lolos ke putaran final Euro 2008, Donadoni untuk sementara bisa tidur nyenyak. Donadoni bahkan bisa lebih bersemangat dalam bekerja setelah mendengar selentingan kabar bahwa FIGC (PSSI Italia) berniat memperpanjang masa kerjanya. Kontrak Donadoni memang baru akan berakhir saat turnamen Euro 2008 berlangsung di Austria dan Swiss. Namun, sejak kemarin FIGC sudah mulai membahas kelanjutan kontrak mantan pelatih Livorno itu. Kabarnya, sebelum Februari berakhir, pelatih kelahiran 9 September 1963 tersebut sudah akan menandatangani kontrak baru yang berdurasi bisa sampai Piala Dunia 2010.

"Sampai saat ini memang belum ada perundingan resmi antara FIGC dan Donadoni. Tapi, kami akan mengupayakan adanya kesepakatan baru akan masa depannya bersama kami segera," tutur Giancarlo Abete, presiden FIGC, seperti dilansir Goal. "Kami akan mencoba melakukannya pada akhir Januari dan berharap agar kesepakatan tercapai sebelum akhir Februari," sambungnya .

Abete membeberkan, kesepakatan baru harus bisa dicapai sebelum Euro 2008 berlangsung, untuk menghindari berbagai spekulasi media massa. "FIGC belum menyodorkan proposal. Tapi, yang pasti, kami tidak akan membiarkan Donadoni melakukan tugasnya di Euro 2008 tanpa kejelasan akan masa depan," tegasnya.

Sementara itu, Donadoni menyatakan bahwa saat ini hanya ingin fokus mempersipkan tim besutannya untuk menyongsong putaran final Piala Eropa 2008. Dalam beberapa pekan terakhir, pelatih yang mengakhiri karirnya sebagai pemain bersama Al Ittihad (2000) itu rajin berkeliling dari satu stadion ke stadion lainnya untuk menyaksikan langsung performa pemain yang menjadi incarannya.

[Ethuang]

Senin, 21 Januari 2008
Donadoni Perpanjang Kontrak


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ROMA - Jelas sudah masa depan pelatih Timnas Italia Roberto Donadoni. Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) memutuskan memperpanjang kontrak Donadoni. Perpanjangan kontrak akan dilakukan sebelum akhir Februari 2008.

Meski sudah ada pernyatan resmi dari FIGC, hingga kini belum ada perundingan resmi antara pihak FIGC dan Donadoni.

"Kami akan mengupayakan adanya kesepakatan baru akan masa depan Donadoni bersama kami. Rencananya, akhir Januari ini akan segera direalisasikan. Diharapkan, kesepakatan tercapai sebelum akhir Februari," jelas Presiden FIFC, Giancarlo Abete, seperti dikutip Goal, Senin (21/1/2008).

Abete juga menyatakan, sejauh ini belum ada perundingan. Namun pihaknya akan berupaya serius membangun program jangka panjang pembangunan Timnas Italia.

Sebelumnya, Donadoni sempat menghadapi risiko dipecat, sebelum Italia mengalahkan Skotlandia 2-1 dalam laga terakhir kualifikasi Euro 2008. Kemenangan itu meloloskan Azzurri ke Euro 2008, dan menyelamatkan karier Donadoni di timnas Italia.

Kontrak Donadoni berakhir saat turnamen Euro 2008 berlangsung di Austria dan Swiss. Kesepakatan baru harus bisa dicapai sebelum Euro 2008 berlangsung, untuk menghindari berbagai spekulasi media massa.

"FIGC belum menyodorkan proposal. Kami tidak akan membiarkan Donadoni melakukan tugasnya di Euro 2008 tanpa kejelasan akan masa depannya," tandas Abete.

[AMQ]

The Rising Star, Fabio Quagliarella
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Italia tidak henti-hentinya menelurkan bomber-bomber berbahaya. Setelah masa Christian Vieri dan Filippo Inzaghi berakhir, kini giliran Fabio Quagliarella siap bersinar.

Meskipun jadi pemain pinjaman ketika membela Sampdoria, namun itu tidak mengecilkan hati Quagliarella. Terbukti, dia mampu mengemas 13 gol dari 35 penampilannya di Serie A bersama Il Samp.

Alhasil, bintang muda itu dipanggil Gli Azzuri untuk memperkuat Italia dalam laga persahabatan melawan Lithuania. Di mana dalam pertandingan itu, Quagliarella mampu menyumbang dua gol.

Ini merupakan sebuah prestasi tersendiri bagi Quagliarella. Pasalnya, itu merupakan debut Quagliarella di tingkat senior.

Bahkan, penampilan gemilang bintang muda kelahiran 31 Oktober 1983 itu membuat sejumlah tim besar berlomba-lomba mencoba menarik perhatiannya. Mulai dari Juventus, AC Milan, hingga Manchester United mencoba untuk menggaetnya.

Sayangnya, Quagliarella memutuskan untuk bertahan di Serie A dan memilih Udinese. Kita lihat saja, apakah Quagliarella mampu membuktikan ketajamannya di partai final Euro 2008.

--------------------

:DFIRE FOX SPEED [-1-] (http://www.duniasex.com/forum/showthread.php?t=147695):D


:DFIRE FOX SPEED [-2-] (http://www.duniasex.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174249):D

=p~download softwareHP=p~ (http://www.duniasex.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174230)

:-osms gratis (http://www.duniasex.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174234):-o
:cool:

[Ethuang]

baru kali ini ada thread khusus u pemain bola :-?
tp kl semua pemain ada thread nya ntar over thread d [DS]forum Bola ini ;)

menurut gw lbh baik kl d post d thread Timnas Italia (Azzuri) nya bro jeemack :)

anyway,
welcome to sub-for BOLA bro AMQ >:D< !!

[itach1ez]

Yup, Thread Pemain sih kayanya bisa ditaruh di Timnas / Klubnya .. ;)

Kecuali pemain2 berprestasi seperti Kaka yang merebut Golden Ball ... :D

Thanks bro, welcome to Bola .. >:D<

[Ethuang]

Senin, 4 Februari 2008
Donadoni Panggil Borriello


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ROMA - Pelatih Timnas Italia Roberto Donadoni, mengumumkan pemain yang akan diboyong menghadapi Portugal pada laga persahabatan di Zurich, Kamis (7/2/2008). Dari 20 pilar pilihannya, striker Genoa Marco Borriello tercatat sebagai pemain yang baru kali pertama merasakan membela Gli Azzurri.

Seperti dilansir Associated Press, Senin (4/1/2008), pemain 25 tahun itu pantas memperkuat Italia, karena mampu membuktikan sebagai penyerang haus gol. Saat ini, Borriello sudah mengoleksi 12 gol di ajang Serie A. Jumlah itu termasuk tendangan penaltinya saat membantu Genoa menggilas Catania 2-1, akhir pekan lalu.

Di sisi lain, Donadoni mengubur spekulasi media massa yang akan memanggil penyerang Juventus Alessandro Del Piero. Selain itu, Donadoni juga tidak menyertakan Antonio Cassano yang saat ini bermain untuk Sampdoria.

Kiper utama Juventus Gianluigi Buffon, bek kiri Juventus Giorgio Chiellini, dan gelandang AC Milan Gennaro Gattuso, juga harus rela menjadi penonton karena masih menjalani pemulihan cedera.

sumber: okezone

[Ethuang]

Squad Italia


Kiper: Marco Amelia (Livorno), Morgan De Sanctis (Sevilla)

Bek: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Marco Cassetti (AS Roma), Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan), Massimo Oddo (AC Milan), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona)

Gelandang: Massimo Ambrosini (AC Milan), Alberto Aquilani (AS Roma), Daniele De Rossi (AS Roma), Simone Perrotta (AS Roma), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan), Franco Semioli (Fiorentina)

Depan: Marco Borriello (Genoa), Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Raffaele Palladino (Juventus), Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Luca Toni (Bayern Munich)

[DORCE]

Italia vs Portugal
Zurich (6/2)
------------------------------
Memperjelas Bayangan

Italia sudah memiliki tim bayangan yang akan berangkat ke Euro 2008. Uji coba melawan Portugal, Rabu (6/2), akan dipakai untuk memperjelas bayangan itu.

Media-media Italia mengklaim 17 dari 23 tempat di tim resmi sudah ada pemiliknya. Pelatih Roberto Donadoni ditengarai akan menggunakan rangkaian uji coba timnya untuk mencari enam pemain yang mengisi tempat tersisa.

Tidak mengherankan ia memanggil mayoritas wajah familiar untuk uji coba melawan Portugal. Para anak emas, seperti Antonio Di Natale, Luca Toni, Andrea Pirlo, dan Massimo Ambrosini, ada di dalam skuad Gli Azzurri.

Donadoni hanya memanggil satu orang debutan: Marco Borriello. Masuknya striker Genoa pencetak 12 gol di Serie A ini terbilang kejutan karena yang lebih dijagokan adalah Antonio Cassano serta Alessandro Del Piero.

Sisa pemain yang dipanggil adalah mereka yang memang sudah diperkirakan akan bertarung mengejar enam posisi tersisa (BOLA 1.796). Di antaranya adalah Franco Semioli, Alberto Aquilani, serta Fabio Quagliarella.

bn geto loch

[DORCE]

Italia vs Portugal
Zurich (6/2)
------------------------------

Dari kubu Portugal, situasinya hampir sama. Pelatih Luiz Felipe Scolari tampak sudah mempunyai tim yang hampir jadi. Terbukti ia hanya memanggil satu debutan, yaitu kiper Rui Patricio, yang akan menjadi kiper nomor tiga.

Rui Patricio dipromosikan Scolari dari Portugal U-21 setelah ia tampil secara reguler memperkuat Sporting Club de Portugal di Superliga Portugal maupun Liga Champion.

“Penting sekali memberikan kesempatan kepada pemain muda. Di Piala Dunia 2006, kami mempunyai masalah dengan salah satu kiper. Jadi, kami perlu mencoba pemain seperti Rui Patricio,” kata Scolari pada situs resmi UEFA.

Pada uji coba ini, Portugal akan kembali diperkuat oleh Deco de Souza dan Armando Petit. Mereka absen di putaran terakhir kualifikasi Euro 2008 karena masih cedera. Jika fit, keduanya hampir pasti akan berangkat ke Austria-Swiss.

Yang unik dari uji coba ini, tidak ada satu pun yang menjadi tuan rumah. Pertandingan ini akan digelar di Zurich, tepatnya di Stadion Letzigrund. Di sini, Italia akan bertemu Rumania dan Prancis pada putaran final Euro 2008.

[DORCE]

Italia vs Portugal
Zurich (6/2)
------------------------------


SKUAD
---------------------
ITALIA
Kiper: Marco Amelia (Livorno), Morgan De Sanctis (Sevilla)
Bek: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Marco Cassetti (Roma), Fabio Grosso (Lyon), Marco Materazzi (Internazionale), Massimo Oddo (Milan), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona)
Gelandang: Massimo Ambrosini, Andrea Pirlo (Milan), Alberto Aquilani, Daniele De Rossi, Simone Perrotta (Roma), Franco Semioli (Fiorentina)
Penyerang: Marco Borriello (Genoa), Antonio Di Natale, Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Raffaele Palladino (Juventus), Luca Toni (Bayern Muenchen)

PORTUGAL
Kiper: Quim (Benfica), Ricardo (Real Betis), Rui Patricio (Sporting)
Bek: Bruno Alves, Bosingwa (Porto), Fernando Meira (Stuttgart), Jorge Ribeiro (Boavista), Marco Caneira (Valencia), Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea)
Gelandang: Deco (Barcelona), Petit (Benfica), Maniche (Internazionale), Raul Meireles (Porto), Nani (Man. United)
Penyerang: Ariza Makukula (Maritimo), Cristiano Ronaldo (Man. United), Nuno Gomes (Benfica), Ricardo Quaresma (Porto)

[DORCE]

Italia vs Portugal
Zurich (6/2)
------------------------------
Scolari Penasaran

http://www.bolanews.com/edisi-cetak/ivb.jpg Buat Luiz Felipe Scolari, Italia adalah lawan yang membuat dirinya sangat penasaran. Pria asal Brasil ini belum pernah membawa Portugal menang atas Gli Azzurri.

“Portugal belum pernah menang melawan Italia dalam 30 tahun terakhir. Saya sendiri sudah dua kali bertemu Italia sejak memegang Portugal. Kami kalah di dua partai tersebut,” kata Scolari seperti dilansir situs resmi UEFA.

Dua pertandingan yang dimaksud Scolari adalah dua uji coba menjelang Euro 2004. Pertemuan pertama terjadi 12 Februari 2003 di Genova. Italia berhasil menang tipis dengan skor 1-0 lewat gol Bernardo Corradi pada menit ke-62.

Duel kedua berlangsung 31 Maret 2004. Kali ini Portugal yang menjadi tuan rumah. Mereka menjamu Italia di Braga. Sempat unggul 1-0 berkat gol Nuno Valente di menit ke-5, Selecao akhirnya kalah lagi 1-2 setelah Christian Vieri membuat gol di menit ke-40 disusul oleh Fabrizio Miccoli (75’).

Sekarang Scolari tentu menginginkan hasil yang lebih baik. Si bos merasa sudah tahu rahasia Italia. “Mereka biasanya merelakan penguasaan bola diambil lawan, tapi kemudian menentukan pertandingan secara tiba-tiba. Penting sekali belajar menghadapi tim seperti ini,” katanya.

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 06 Feb 2008,
Buka Peluang Pemain Baru


Roberto Donadoni akhirnya tidak bisa menahan kecaman publik Italia karena tidak memasukkan Antonio Cassano dan Alessandro Del Piero di skuad Timnas Italia dalam uji coba menghadapi Portugal. Sehari menjelang pertandingan, Donadoni pun mengadakan jumpa pers untuk menjelaskan hal itu.

"Saya melakukan ini karena ingin mencoba pemain-pemain baru. Ini adalah kesempatan terakhir kami," paparnya sebagaimana dilansir Football Itali. Lebih lanjut, Donadoni mengatakan bahwa pemain-pemain yang tidak dipanggilnya saat ini tidak berarti kehilangan kesempatan untuk masuk timnas. Mereka bisa berkonsentrasi untuk meningkatkan performanya. Apalagi, sisa waktu Euro 2008 masih empat bulan lagi.

"Jika saya menentukan pemain Euro 2008 mulai saat ini, saya tentu membuat pemain terlena. Mereka dapat menganggap empat bulan ke depan sebagai liburan," tuturnya. Mengenai Del Piero yang sudah menunjukkan tren positif dengan koleksi tujuh gol dari sembilan laga, Donadoni menyatakan bahwa hal itu merupakan faktor dasar dalam seleksi pemain.

"Tujuh gol tidak lantas membuat seorang pemain langsung dibutuhkan," katanya. Striker berusia 33 tahun tersebut termasuk skuad Italia saat memenangi Piala Dunia 2006. Dia belum pernah bermain bersama Azzurri sejak penampilannya buruk, saat bermain tanpa gol pada kualifikasi Euro 2008 melawan Prancis, September lalu.

Kala itu, Donadoni memasangnya di sayap. Del Piero sempat protes dengan posisinya itu dan mengancam tidak mau masuk timnas jika berlaga sebagai sayap. Media Italia memperkirakan, kapten Juventus itu akan kembali dipanggil setelah tampil baik dengan menyarangkan tujuh gol dalam sembilan pertandingan.

Donadoni tidak memasukkan Cassano karena alasan lain. Pemain yang telah naik daun sejak bergabung dengan Sampdoria dengan status pinjaman dari Real Madrid tersebut dianggapnya terlalu temperamental. "Pemain depan harus bisa mengontrol emosi. Dia juga harus lebih konsisten jika ingin memenangi gelar pertamanya bersama Italia," pungkas Donadoni.

sumber: jawapos

[Ethuang]

Rabu, 6 Februari 2008
FIGC Segera Perpanjang Kontrak Donadoni


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ROMA - Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC), sepertinya cukup puas dengan peforma Roberto Donadoni. FIGC bakal memperpanjang kontrak Donadoni sebelum perhelatan Euro 2008 mendatang.Menurut Presiden FIGC, Giancarlo Abete, pihaknya akan segera mewujudkan keinginan Donadoni untuk memperpanjang kerja sama Azzurri dengan mantan pemain AC Milan itu.
"Kami akan membicarakan masalah kontrak Donadoni dalam beberapa hari ke depan. Tujuannya adalah untuk mencapai kesepakatan sebelum Febuari ini, seperti yang sudah kami katakana sebelumnya. Kami sangat mempercayai Donadoni dan ingin memperbarui kontraknya," tutur Abete.
"Tapi, saya percaya Donadoni dan kami akan menemui kata sepakat. Pasalnya, yang penting adalah pergi ke kejuaraan Euro setelah semua masalah kontrak ini tuntas," pungkasnya.
Azzurri akan melakoni partai Euro 2008 mendatang dengan sangat berat. Gianluigi Buffon dkk akan berada di Grup maut dengan Belanda, Rumania, dan Prancis.



sumber: okezone

[jeemack]

06/02/2008 22:48

Impressive Italy Sweep Away Portugal

Italy 3-1 Portugal

Luca Toni, Andrea Pirlo and Fabio Quagliarella scored the goals as an impressive Italy beat Portugal 3-1 in a highly entertaining and open friendly at the Letzigrund Stadium in Zurich.

http://www.goal.com/images/26905.jpg

An exciting first-half was brought to a close with an Italy goal as Luca Toni stabbed the ball home in stoppage time following a Fabio Grosso cross.

Italy took charge after the break and Andrea Pirlo added a second with a deflected drive, before the Azzurri missed more chances to make it three. Portugal got back into the game on 76 minutes when Ricardo Quaresma blasted home, but just seconds later substitute Fabio Quagliarella restored Italy's two-goal advantage from close-range.

Italy, playing in their new kit, went into the game without the injured Gigi Buffon, Gennaro Gattuso and Marco Materazzi while Raffaele Palladino played in Mauro Camoranesi’s usual wide-right role.

Portugal, who had not beaten the Azzurri for 32 years, were without Pepe, Simao and Nuno Gomes.

Portugal started strongly and Inter’s Nuno Maniche tested Marco Amelia with a looping header.

Italy then thought they had taken the lead after five minutes when Andrea Pirlo's rasping drive found the back of the net, but the referee controversially disallowed for a supposed handling offence. Replays showed that the ball had come off his chest.

Massimo Ambrosini then had a header from a Pirlo free kick saved by Ricardo, before Antonio Di Natale almost got onto the end of Massimo Oddo's cross.

Portugal were playing their typical free-flowing football but their next chance came from a corner as Bruno Alves was allowed a free header at the near post but nodded over the bar. Ricardo Quaresma was causing havoc down the left and he set up Deco, who fired wide.

Italy could barely get out of their half but they almost struck a sucker punch on 27 minutes when Raffaele Palladino fed Di Natale, whose ferocious shot was turned around the post by Ricardo. From the resulting corner Daniele De Rossi headed wide from six yards.

Italy received a blow on 29 minutes as Gianluca Zambrotta was forced off with an injury, and was replaced by Fabio Grosso.

Makukula smashed an effort wide for Portugal from 30 yards, before Toni squandered the chance of a run through on goal due to some poor control. Makukula again tried his luck from outside the area. This time he was much closer as his low drive skimmed the far post.

On 41 minutes Ronaldo hit a trademark swerving and dipping free-kick that was beaten away by Amelia. Portugal wasted a glorious chance just moments later as they had a three-on-one situation on the counter-attack but Quaresma over-hit his pass to Ronaldo and the danger passed.

Italy finally broke the deadlock in injury time at the end of the first half. Grosso fired in a cross from the left that went straight across the six yard box for Toni to stab home at the back-post.

Into the second period and Toni immediately had a good chance but he headed over from a Di Natale cross.

Pirlo then executed a simply brilliant chipped pass for Di Natale, and the ball fell to Toni, who found himself with just Ricardo to beat. The goalkeeper pulled off a fine reaction save.

Just moments late Italy did double their advantage as Pirlo’s shot from the edge of the penalty area was deflected off Fabio Cannavaro past Ricardo at his near post.

Italy were now producing some breathtaking football which Portugal simply couldn’t cope with. Palladino’s clever pass released Di Natale, who was denied by a superb save from Ricardo.

Palladino was starting to prove all his doubters wrong as he was desperately unlucky not to make it three on 63 minutes. Cannavaro crossed from the right and Palladino performed a brilliant chest-and-volley that crashed off the crossbar, via the finger-tips of Ricardo. It was a piece of world-class skill from the Juventus man.

Another player who was impressing was Fabio Cannavaro. Il Capitano has been criticised in the Spanish press recently but he was a rock again at the back for the Azzurri, and performed a brilliant last-gasp tackle on substitute Nani, who had seemed destined to score.

Another substitute, Hugo Almeida, failed to get on the end of a Jorge Ribeiro Cross, while Marco Borriello, who came on for his Italy debut for Toni almost scored immediately, chesting down a corner before being crowded out.

Portugal got back into the game on 76 minutes as the impressive Quaresma was left completely unmarked at the back-post from a Nani cross and smashed the ball past Amelia.

However Italy displayed all of their famed mental qualities by restoring their two-goal advantage less than 60 seconds later. Fabio Quagliarella scored with his first touch after coming on as a substitute, sweeping the ball home from close range after Perrotta had headed down Di Natale's hooked volley.

Italy took their foot of the gas for the closing 10 minutes, but there was still time for Amelia, who did not put a foot wrong all night, to palm away a ferocious Ronaldo free-kick.

This was an impressive victory for the Azzurri, who rack up their sixth win on the bounce. Portugal meanwhile seemed to be handicapped once again by their inability to find a top-class forward.

Italy Amelia; Oddo (Cassetti 81), Cannavaro, Barzagli (Gamberini 53), Zambrotta (Grosso 29); De Rossi (Perrotta 53), Pirlo, Ambrosini; Palladino (Quagliarella 78), Toni (Borriello 71), Di Natale

Portugal: Ricardo; Bosingwa (J Ribeiro 69), Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, Caneira (P Ferreira 46); Maniche (Raul Meireles 61), Petit (F Meira 46), Deco (Nani 46); Cristiano Ronaldo, Makukula (Hugo Almeida 57), Quaresma

[jeemack]

06/02/2008 23:38

Donadoni Happy, Cannavaro Wants The Double

Italy Coach Roberto Donadoni was pleased with tonight's 3-1 win over Portugal, while captain Fabio Cannavaro has declared that the Azzurri want to follow up their World Cup triumph by winning Euro 2008.

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The Azzurri produced an impressive performance tonight, sweeping past Portugal 3-1 in Zurich courtesy of goals from Luca Toni, Andrea Pirlo and Fabio Quagliarella.

Donadoni

"One really cannot complain at the end of this match, even if I am a very demanding Coach. if these are the responses, then I am happy," said Donadoni.

"Considering some of the friendly games we have played in the past, it was good to warn them against stepping off the gas, but this group proved it is a real team and gave a fine performance."

Cannavaro

“I don’t think we used to snub friendlies in other years such as when we beat Holland and Germany . The Nazionale has grown so much in recent years, fighting for every game, entertaining, winning and scoring goals,” said Cannavaro.

“The secret is that the new faces come into a group that is already solid and tries to improve with each day. The newcomers see that and settle in to the mentality.

“Victories like this certainly bring confidence and help you to prepare for the tournament. However, we must put the World Cup behind us and not think about it anymore, as this is a different competition with other teams.

“I’d like to follow France in winning the World Cup and European Championship back to back.”

Cannavaro, who was an absolute rock at the back, performing one brilliant tackle on Nani, had words of praise for Coach Roberto Donadoni.

“Donadoni replaced a World Cup winner and did brilliantly to reinvigorate and motivate players who risked falling by the wayside. He has earned all of our respect and admiration,” the Neapolitan concluded.

[B]Quagliarella

Fabio Quagliarella, who scored with his first touch after coming on as a substitute, also praised Donadoni.

“I can only thank Donadoni for the faith he has always put in me from the first moment. He has done brilliantly for this team and deserves to be confirmed in his position,” said the striker.

“To score with the Nazionale jersey is always a wonderful feeling. The important thing was to do well and I was fortunate to be at the right spot to turn it in.”

Quagliarella now has three goals in eight caps for the Azzurri.

[jeemack]

07/02/2008 00:21

Quagliarella Appreciates Donadoni's Gesture

Udinese striker Fabio Quagliarella has thanked Roberto Donadoni for allowing him to play for the Azzurri in their 3-1 friendly win over Portugal.

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Luca Toni opened the scoring on the stroke of half time and Andrea Pirlo grabbed a second before Portugal cut the deficit. However it was Quagliarella's strike, straight after Quaresma's, which sealed the game for the Azzurri.
“To score in the Nazionale jersey is always a wonderful feeling," said Quagliarella. "The important thing was to do well and I was fortunate to be at the right spot to turn it in.”


The Udinese came on in the second half and hit the back of the net within a minute of stepping onto the pitch in Zurich.

It was an accomplished display by the four time World Cup winners as they begin preparations for the Euro 2008 tournament in Austria and Switzerland in June.

“It is always Italy stepping on to the field and we have learned from the leaders like Fabio Cannavaro that one must always give 100 per cent and avoid embarrassing the country,” Quagliarella added.

“I can only thank Donadoni for the faith he has always put in me from the first moment. He has done brilliantly for this team and deserves to be confirmed in his position.”


The game was exciting and had an excellent atmosphere from beginning to end, there was even a fireworks display before and after the match as the ground witnessed scenes which we would usually see in a major tournament rather than a friendly.

“It is wonderful to have the crowd cheering you on and Italians all over the world never fail to give us their affection and enthusiasm," declared Quagliarella. "It’ll be great to see them here again in the summer."

[jeemack]

07/02/2008 00:40

Donadoni Has Our Complete Trust - Abete

The president of the Italian football association Giancarlo Abete has insisted that Roberto Donadoni is the man to lead the Azzurri for quite some time yet.

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Abete spoke during and after the game against Portugal which La Nazionale won 3-1 courtesy of goals from Luca Toni, Andrea Pirlo and Fabio Quagliarella.

Italian media reports had suggested on Tuesday that Roberto Donadoni would be axed after the Euro 2008 tournament later this year.

However, Abete revealed that the Azzurri coach should not worry about his contract and that a solution will be found sooner rather than later, as the Italian FA continue to show their faith in the former Milan midfielder.

“The coach has our full trust and he knows this,” said Abete.

“We need to find an agreement so that he can see this trust for himself, I think we will find the right solution.”

“I am trustworthy and I have an excellent relationship with the coach and within the next few days we will find a solution that we both agree on.”

Italy meanwhile continue their Euro 2008 preparations and no doubt they will be one of the favourites to win the tournament after this convincing performance against an elegant Portugal side.

It won't be easy for La Nazionale however as they are in the so called 'group of death' which includes Holland, Romania and France

[jeemack]

23/02/2008 12:07

Del Piero For Euro 2008 - Schillaci

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Former Italy star Salvatore Schillaci believes that Alessandro Del Piero deserves to be called-up for Euro 2008.

Del Piero has been out of the Azzurri fold since September of last year, but he has been in excellent club form for Juventus in recent months.

“Del Piero is a great player,” Schillaci told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“It is right that the Nazionale calls those who are in good shape and at the moment that is Del Piero.”

Schillaci, who finished top-scorer at World Cup Italia ‘90, played for both Juventus and Inter during his career, and he has commented on both sides.

“I wish Juventus the absolute best of luck,” he said.

“They have just come back into the top flight after Calciopoli and are already doing very well.

“In my view, Inter can manage to overturn the 2-0 first leg defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League.”

Finally Schillaci criticised Inter for the lack of home-grown players in their squad.

“I agree with FIFA President Sepp Blatter that there should be limits of five foreigners in every club side.

“Youngsters are currently blocked off by the arrival of overseas players and the effect is also felt within the national team,” ‘Toto’ concluded.

[jeemack]

Donadoni Ultimatum: 'Semi-finals Or Bust'

According to reports from Italy, Roberto Donadoni will only have his contract renewed if Italy get to the semi-finals or beyond at Euro 2008.


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The Italy coach met with football federation president Giancarlo Abete on Thursday this week to discuss a contract extension with the FIGC releasing a statement that read: "The meeting was positive and the goal is to define a contractual agreement of reciprocal satisfaction as soon as possible."

But today newspapers in the peninsula are claiming that Donadoni's demands have been rejected out of hand.

Instead, the Azzurri boss will be asked to accept the new deal within the next month or wait until the end of the European Championship's to see if he reaches the final four of the competition.

Donadoni's current deal expires at the end of Euro 2008 and is said to be worth 1 million euros a season.

Any new contract would take him through to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Italy are in a tough Euro 2008 group alongside France, Holland and Romania and the pressure will now be on Donadoni as he now knows that failure to progress to at least the semi-finals will see him sacked.

To date, the former Milan winger has won 11 of his 17 matches in charge.

[jeemack]

29/02/2008 12:27

Donadoni: I Don’t Want The Same Fate As Napoleon

There are exactly 100 days to go until Euro 2008, and Italy boss Roberto Donadoni hopes he doesn’t have the same fate as the 19th century French general Napoleon Bonaparte.

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Napoleon

With 100 days to go until the opening game of Euro 2008, La Stampa came up with an interesting analogy of the famous ‘Hundred Days’ in 1815, which was the period between Napoleon’s return to Paris from his exile on the Tuscan island of Elba, and his eventual demise that led to the restoration of Louis XIII on the throne.

In an interview with the paper, Donadoni preferred that no such link was proposed, given the negative fate that was bestowed upon Napoleon.

"As things ended up for him, I prefer not to think about this,” said Donadoni.

Group Of Death

The Azzurri have been drawn in the ‘Group of Death’ alongside Holland, Romania and France.

”I have three employees who I have entrusted to go and see Holland, France and Romania,” Donadoni noted.

”I have ideas but it is essential that you understand what conditions the players are in. This is a very important principle, although it is not absolute.”

Cassano, Del Piero Or Borriello?

Donadoni was then asked who he was going to select out of Antonio Cassano, Alessandro Del Piero and Marco Borriello, who are all in excellent form currently.

“I ask you a favour. Tell me who should I leave at home,” he said.

Amauri

Finally the subject of Amauri came up, with the Brazilian set to gain an Italian passport on April 30. Is Donadoni against the calling-up of ‘Oriundi’ (naturalised foreigners).

"No, and he is one of the strongest attackers available,” he stated.

“However we are talking about April which is very close to the European Championships with only one friendly to test him out before the tournament.”

[jeemack]

01/03/2008 14:17 Borriello Dreaming Of Euro 2008

Genoa star Marco Borriello says that he is dreaming of being called up by Italy for this summer’s European Championships.

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Borriello has been the surprise of the season in Serie A, as he is the current Capocannoniere with 16 goals to his name. The 25-year-old moved top Genoa in the summer on a co-ownership deal from Milan.

"The secret of my success is really down to the continuity that I have been given at Genoa," said Borriello.

"Now I am more confident in my game and I try certain things which before I didn't even consider.

"Last season at AC Milan I didn't play much and I wasn't able to show my quality.

"There's a lot of competition in the top clubs for a starting place, but the fact that Milan co-own my sporting rights shows that they still have some faith in me.

"I didn't expect to be the league's top scorer when I joined Genoa, but my aim was to finish the season in double figures.”

"I wanted to be useful for the team and for the team to mirror my performances."

Borriello made his debut for the Italian national team last month in the 3-1 friendly win over Portugal, and he says that he is dreaming of going to Euro 2008.

"My dream is to play at Euro 2008. But I know the next two months will be crucial," he concluded.

[jeemack]

09/05/2008 13:51

Italy Squad – Inzaghi Out, Del Piero, Toldo & Chiellini In

The Corriere dello Sport has today claimed to know the 23 men that Italy coach Roberto Donadoni will select for Euro 2008.

Donadoni’s three goalkeepers will be Gianluigi Buffon, Marco Amelia, and Inter veteran Francesco Toldo, who has been heavily linked in the press with travelling as the third goalkeeper.

Donadoni will opt for eight defenders, where there are few real surprises. Massimo Oddo and Marco Materazzi are both trusted despite their respective lack of fitness and form. Giorgio Chiellini has also been tipped to get the nod as a utility player, who can play at centre back, full back, or even in an emergency midfield role.

As for the natural midfield positions, the Milan trio of Gattuso, Pirlo and Ambrosini and Roma duo of Daniele De Rossi and Simone Perrotta are no-brainers, as is Juventus’ Mauro Camoranesi.

The only doubt on the part of the Corriere regards whether Alberto Aquilani or Riccardo Montolivo is chosen. The former has struggled recently, while the latter has been in wonderful form, despite labouring earlier in the campaign.

Finally up-front, the newspaper believes there will be no place for Pippo Inzaghi, despite being the most in-form striker in Serie A, having hit nine goals in his last five matches. Marco Borriello will be Luca Toni’s understudy, with Alessandro Del Piero and Udinese duo Antonio Di Natale and Fabio Quagliarella taking the other two slots.

Squad list according to the Corriere dello Sport:

Goalkeepers: Buffon, Amelia, Toldo

Defenders: Oddo, Panucci, Materazzi, Barzagli, Cannavaro, Grosso, Zambrotta, Chiellini

Midfielders: Gattuso, Ambrosini, Pirlo, De Rossi, Perrotta, Aquilani or Montolivo, Camoranesi

Attackers: Toni, Borriello, Di Natale,

[Rak@]

09/05/2008 13:51
Squad list according to the Corriere dello Sport:

Goalkeepers: Buffon, Amelia, Toldo

Defenders: Oddo, Panucci, Materazzi, Barzagli, Cannavaro, Grosso, Zambrotta, Chiellini

Midfielders: Gattuso, Ambrosini, Pirlo, De Rossi, Perrotta, Aquilani or Montolivo, Camoranesi

Attackers: Toni, Borriello, Di Natale,

gilardino gak masuk???

[jeemack]

Bocoran Skuad Italia di Piala Eropa 2008

Inzaghi Out, Del Piero dan Toldo Masuk

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ROMA, - Ada bocoran tentang skuad Italia yang akan terbang ke Austria-Swiss untuk tampil di putaran final Piala Eropa 2008 bulan Juni mendatang. Menurut Corriere dello Sport, dari 23 pemain yang akan dibawa, pelatih Roberto Donadoni akan menyertakan Alessandro Del Piero dan meninggalkan Filippo Inzaghi.

Untuk posisi penjaga gawang, Gianluigi Buffon tetap menjadi pilihan utama. Kiper Juventus itu akan ditemani oleh Marco Amelia dan kiper veteran Inter Milan, Francesco Toldo, yang bakal menjadi pilihan ketiga.

Sementara itu, di sektor bek Donadoni bakal menunjuk delapan orang di mana ada beberapa nama yang cukup mengejutkan. Walaupun grafik permainannya agak menurun sepanjang musim ini, Massimo Oddo dan Marco Materazzi tetap dipilih.

Bek Juventus, Giorgio Chiellini, juga masuk skuad Azzurri. Chiellini bakal jadi pemain penting karena dia bisa bermain dalam beberapa posisi. Di samping sebagai bek tengah, dia bisa bermain sebagai full back, atau bisa sebagai gelandang jika situasi genting.

Di sektor tengah tak ada kejutan karena trio AC Milan, Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo dan Massimo Ambrosini serta duo AS Roma, Daniele De Rossi dan Simone Perrotta terpilih. Mereka akan didampingi gelandang Juventus, Mauro Camoranesi.

Hanya satu tempat yang belum terisi karena Corriere tak bisa memastikan. Ada dua nama yang akan bersaing untuk menggenapinya menjadi enam orang, yakni Alberto Aquilani atau Riccardo Montolivo. Penampilan dua pemain tersebut sepanjang musim ini cukup menjanjikan.

Bagaimana dengan striker? Barisan penggedor pertahanan lawan itu sudah pasti menjadi milik Luca Toni. Penyerang Bayern Munich tersebut akan didampingi Marco Borriello, Alessandro Del Piero serta duo Udinese, Antonio Di Natale dan Fabio Quagliarella.

Menurut Corriere, Donadoni tak menyertakan Inzaghi. Meskipun masih tajam dan telah menyumbang sembilan gol dalam lima pertandingan terakhirnya bersama Milan, Inzaghi belum memikat hati sang pelatih. (GL/LOU)

- Skuad Italia versi Corriere dello Sport:

Kiper: Buffon, Amelia, Toldo

Bek: Oddo, Panucci, Materazzi, Barzagli, Cannavaro, Grosso, Zambrotta, Chiellini

Gelandang: Gattuso, Ambrosini, Pirlo, De Rossi, Perrotta, Aquilani atau Montolivo, Camoranesi

Penyerang: Toni, Borriello, Di Natale, Quagliarella, Del Piero

[jeemack]

Italy Squad Announcement On Tuesday


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Italy coach Roberto Donadoni will announce his 23-man squad for Euro 2008 next Tuesday.

The official deadline for handing over the list to UEFA is on Wednesday May 28, but Donadoni has stated that he will announce those going, eight days in advance on Tuesday May 20 at 15:00 CET.

Those chosen will be present at Coverciano on Sunday May 25 to begin preparation for Italy’s final friendly game before the Euros the following Thursday. The Azzurri take on Belgium at the Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence.

Italy’s first match in Austria and Switzerland is against Holland on June 9. They then take on Romania four days later, before completing their Group C programme against bitter rivals France.

The Italian press is now certain to go into overdrive between now and Tuesday, trying to predict who Donadoni will indeed name in his final squad. Most of the speculation is likely to center around the likes of Antonio Cassano, Alex Del Piero and Pippo Inzaghi.

[jeemack]

16/05/2008 16:29

Road To Euro 2008: Italy Recover To Top 'Group Of Death'

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Carlo Garganese outlines the Azzurri’s route to Austria and Switzerland.

World Champions Italy recovered from a disastrous start to finish top of the toughest of all the qualifying pools for Euro 2008. Group B, tagged as the 'Group of Death', also contained World Cup runners-up France, World quarter-finalists Ukraine, rising force Scotland, as well Georgia, Lithuania and minnows the Faroe Islands.

Disastrous Start

After Italy won the World Cup in 1982 they then embarked on a dreadful run of form, failing to win a competitive match in the next 18 months, and thus failing to qualify for Euro '84 after finishing second-bottom in their qualifying group. Many Italians feared that the World Cup winners from Germany 2006 may repeat the actions of their ‘82 predecessors after a very shaky beginning to their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

The inexperienced and apparently under-qualified Roberto Donadoni had replaced Marcello Lippi as coach, and at first it seemed that the pressure of replacing such a legendary figure, who had just won the world's biggest prize, was going to prove too much. The cloud of the Calciopoli scandal was still hovering over Italian football, and Serie A's late start to the season, as well as an extremely nasty qualifying group, all meant that it was not the most ideal of honeymoons for Donadoni.

Having already lost to Croatia in a friendly, Donadoni’s first competitive game on the road to the Euros ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw with Lithuania in Naples. Italy fell behind to a Tomas Danilevicius goal, only for Pippo Inzaghi to grab an equaliser.

Four days later Italy travelled to Paris to take on bitter rivals France, who were desperate for revenge after their penalty shootout loss in the World Cup final in Berlin just a couple of months earlier. The Azzurri had huge problems going into the game, as they were without a host of first team players due to injury, lack of fitness or in the case of Marco Materazzi, suspension (for the 'Zidane incident'). France were fresher, faster and more determined, and aside from a short 20 minute spell in the first half, they dominated the entire game to run out 3-1 winners. Sidney Govou scored twice, Thierry Henry once, with Alberto Gilardino hitting Italy’s consolation.

Donadoni Set For Sack?

With the campaign just two games old, Italy were already under severe pressure, and they knew that anything less than a win in their next match at home to Ukraine could virtually end their qualification hopes. There were calls for Donadoni to resign or be sacked, while it was abundantly clear than anything less than three points and the ex-Milan midfielder would probably have been on his way. However the Azzurri responded with a fine display, as they comfortably defeated the Ukrainians 2-0 in Rome, a Massimo Oddo penalty and Luca Toni stunner doing the damage.

The pressure was still on Donadoni when they made the trip to Georgia four days later, but he guaranteed his stay into the New Year with a 3-1 win, Daniele De Rossi, Mauro Camoranesi and Simone Perrotta grabbing the goals. This match would also prove to be the last in an Italy shirt for Alessandro Nesta, who like Francesco Totti, would eventually announce his international retirement the following summer.

Azzurri Step It Up In 2007

Despite two wins on the bounce, Italy took on the group’s surprise outfit Scotland in Bari in March still knowing that anything less than a win would seriously jeopardise their Euro 2008 hopes. Toni proved to be the hero with a monstrous display, scoring two headers in a 2-0 victory. The towering striker left the pitch towards the end to a standing ovation, and was replaced by Fabio Quagliarella, who made his international debut.

Italy were now on something of a role as they slowly began to repair the damage from early in the campaign. In June they picked up six points from six in the Faroe Islands and Lithuania. In the first game against the Faroes, the Azzurri created enough chances to win by a cricket score, but ultimately they only managed a 2-1 victory. Inzaghi, fresh from his heroics for Milan in the Champions League final, scored another brace, however the home side could have grabbed a shock draw after Gianluigi Buffon was forced into a fine save in stoppage time.

There were no such scares in Kaunas, as Quagliarella underlined his potential with two stunning long-range goals in a 2-0 win. The Azzurri had now won five matches in succession.

Crunch Time

With five games remaining in the group, three of them against those battling for qualification, the moment of truth had arrived. Italy’s two games in September were a home match against France and an away trip to the Ukraine. The Azzurri first drew 0-0 with Les Bleus at San Siro in a dour and uneventful game for which Alessandro Del Piero received heavy criticism from the press.

This result again complicated matters for Italy, and meant that they simply had to win in Ukraine four days later. A double from Antonio Di Natale, as well as some fine Buffon saves, allowed them to win 2-1, a scoreline that virtually eliminated Oleg Blokhin’s men from the reckoning. However Scotland’s shock 1-0 win in France on the same night was a disastrous result for the Azzurri, as it seemed at that time that they would probably have to win all three of their remaining matches, including their trip to Glasgow, in order to qualify.

Italy played just the one game in October, comfortably beating Georgia 2-0 in Genoa, thanks to a bizarre Andrea Pirlo free-kick, and a late Fabio Grosso strike. The big news though came a few days later, when the Georgians did Donadoni’s men a huge favour by beating Scotland.

Do-Or-Die In Scotland

Georgia’s win over the Scots meant that Italy travelled to Hampden Park on November 17 knowing that they only needed a draw to virtually guarantee qualification to Euro 2008 at the Tartan Army’s expense. However a defeat for the Azzurri would mean almost certain elimination. The World Champions had a dream start to the match, as Toni gave them the lead after just 90 seconds. It should have been two before half time as Di Natale had a goal incorrectly disallowed for offside. Scotland then ensured a nervy finish as Barry Ferguson stabbed home from close range to make it 1-1 on 65 minutes. Indeed the home side could have then taken the lead as James McFadden fired wide with the goal at his mercy. Deep into injury time Christian Panucci broke Scotland’s hearts with a header from Pirlo’s free kick, a goal that not only earned Italy their first-ever victory in Scotland, but also booked their place at Euro 2008.

The Azzurri now had nothing to play for except top spot, in their final qualifier with the Faroe Islands in Modena. Donadoni rested a host of players, but Toni, Giorgio Chiellini and an own goal secured a comfortable 3-1 win.

Aftermath

Italy finished their campaign three points clear of fellow qualifiers France, at the top of Group B. It had been a magnificent turnaround by Donadoni, who had seemed destined for the sack after a disastrous start to his reign. Indeed his job was on the line right up until the final whistle of that dramatic win in Glasgow.

Donadoni still has some doubters, however Italy’s stunning run of nine wins and a draw from their last 10 competitive games, during which they conceded just five goals, has certainly won over many people. It must also be remembered that Italy were in a group containing the World Cup finalists France, World Cup quarter-finalists Ukraine, and a rising force in Scotland – which all in all made it easily the toughest of all the qualifying groups.

Donadoni has also received praise for his tactical flexibility, which sees the Azzurri regularly switch between a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 and 4-4-2 during games. The most recent friendly matches in 2008 against Portugal and Spain, which resulted in a 3-1 win and 0-1 defeat respectively, also produced a number of positives.

Italy will go into Euro 2008 as one of, if not the outright favourites for the trophy. However they will have to negotiate their way through another ‘Group of Death’, as they tackle Holland, Romania, and France yet again, in Group C.

Qualifying Results

2006
2/9 Lithuania (H) 1-1
6/9 France (A) 1-3
7/10 Ukraine (H) 2-0
11/10 Georgia (A) 3-1

2007
28/3 Scotland (H) 2-0
2/6 Faroe Islands (A) 2-1
6/6 Lithuania (A) 2-0
8/9 France (H) 0-0
12/9 Ukraine (A) 2-1
13/10 Georgia (H) 2-0
17/11 Scotland (A) 2-1
21/11 Faroe Islands (H) 3-1

Final Group B Table

Pts.P W D L S A
Italy 29 12 9 2 1 22 9
France 26 12 8 2 2 25 5
Scotland 24 12 8 0 4 21 12
Ukraine 17 12 5 2 5 18 16
Lithuania 16 12 5 1 6 11 13
Georgia 10 12 3 1 8 16 19
Faroe I 10 12 0 012 4 43

[jeemack]

24/05/2008 12:39

Van Basten: Azzurri Favourites For Euro 2008

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Holland coach Marco Van Basten believes Italy are amongst the favourites to win Euro 2008 next month.

The Oranje are in the so called "Group of Death" alongside Italy, France and Romania and the former Milan hero insists that the Azzurri have every chance of winning the tournament.

The coach believes that Italy's bitter rivals France are also among those tipped to win.

"I think that both Italy and France are much stronger than they were during World Cup 2006," said Van Basten.

"Their teams are based around youth and experience and this is a massive advantage.

"France have impressed me as they a more physical but Italy are not like they used to be when they used to defend.

"Now, the Azzurri play more attacking football and they are more open to going forward rather than just staying at the back."

The Azzurri get their tournament underway against Holland on June 9th in Berne. They then clash with Romania and conclude the group stages with a final clash against Les Bleus on June 17th in Zurich.

Salvatore Landolina

[jeemack]

Cassano & Del Piero Make Provisional Italy Squad

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Sampdoria enigma Antonio Cassano was the surprise inclusion in Roberto Donadoni's provisional Italy squad for Euro 2008, and he joins Alessandro Del Piero in the 24-man party. However there is no place for Milan duo Massimo Oddo and Pippo Inzaghi.

Roberto Donadoni sprung one huge shock in his provisional 24-man squad as the hugely talented, yet volatile, Cassano was included.

The 25-year-old has been in magnificent form this season for Sampdoria, but he was widely expected to miss out following his lengthy suspension back in March for his furious reaction to being sent off against Torino.

However it seems that Cassano’s spellbinding performance against Juventus at the weekend has convinced Donadoni, and he is chosen in attack along with Serie A Capocannoniere Alessandro Del Piero, Udinese duo Antonio Di Natale and Fabio Quagliarella, Genoa’s Marco Borriello and Bayern Munich’s Luca Toni.

Milan’s Pippo Inzaghi misses out despite a prolific end to the season, as does Lazio’s Tommaso Rocchi and the injured Vincenzo Iaquinta.

There are no surprises in midfield, although Alberto Aquilani and Riccardo Montolivo are both selected.

In defence the only notable absentee is Massimo Oddo, who has barely featured for Milan over the past six weeks due to injury and fitness problems. Sevilla’s Morgan De Sanctis travels to Austria and Switzerland as third choice goalkeeper.

Donadoni will axe one player from the squad, before he has to submit his final 23 players to UEFA on May 28.

Full Italy Squad for Euro 2008

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Marco Amelia (Livorno), Morgan De Sanctis (Sevilla)

Defenders: Cristian Panucci (Roma), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Marco Materazzi (Inter), Fabio Grosso (Lyon), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus)

Midfielders: Rino Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo, Massimo Ambrosini (Milan), Daniele De Rossi, Simone Perrotta, Alberto Aquilani (Roma), Mauro German Camoranesi (Juventus), Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina)

Forwards: Luca Toni (Bayern Munich), Marco Borriello (Genoa), Antonio Di Natale, Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Antonio Cassano (Sampdoria)

[jeemack]

24/05/2008 18:00

Maradona: Italy One Of My Favourites For Euro 2008


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Former Napoli legend Diego Maradona has tipped Italy as one of the favourites to win Euro 2008.

The 1986 World Cup winner has been playing close attention to the European scene recently and he believes that Spain, Italy and Germany are all good contenders for the European Championship.

Maradona spent seven years with Napoli and he became a god in the port city. El Pibe de Or recently hit out against the Italian game but he hasn't counted La Nazionale out from winning the tournament next month.

"Of course, you can never count Italy out from winning it," Maradona told Record.

"Spain also has a good chance of winning it, as does Germany who have always done well historically."

Italy have the toughest group and this has affected their odds of winning the tournament outright. The Azzurri will play Holland, Romania and France in group C.

The last game against Les Bleus will be a fiery encounter given the rivalry between the two nations. Maradona will always be remembered as one the greatest in the game but his recent swipe against Italy will not win him any more admirers outside of Naples.


Salvatore Landolina

[bocah_kere]

Italia Coba Skema 4-3-1-2

FLORENCE, SABTU - Pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni bereksperimen dengan pola 4-3-1-2 saat memukul Belgia 3-1 (2-0) pada uji coba menjelang Piala Eropa 2008 di Florence, Italia, Jumat (30/5) atau Sabtu dini hari WIB. Pola itu akan menjadi alternatif skuad Gli Azzurri, selain pakem 4-3-3, tetapi masih belum teruji keampuhannya.
Kemenangan Italia atas Belgia, yang tidak lolos ke Piala Eropa 2008, ditentukan dua gol Antonio Di Natale menit ke-9 dan 41 serta satu gol Mauro Camoranesi menit ke-49. Wesley Sonck mempertipis kekalahan Belgia melalui gol saat injury time.
Donadoni memanfaatkan laga tersebut dengan mencoba pola alternatif skuadnya, 4-3-1-2, di babak kedua. Ia sebenarnya cenderung memilih pola 4-3-3, yang diperagakan di babak pertama. "Kini saya punya kemungkinan pola lain," katanya seusai laga.
Dengan pola 4-3-3, Italia memasang Di Natale di sayap kiri dan Camoranesi di kanan. Mereka mengapit striker Luca Toni. Di lini tengah, Donadoni memberi kejutan dengan memasang Alberto Aquilani - bukan Massimo Ambrosini - bersama Andrea Pirlo dan Gennaro Gattuso.
Aquilani membayar kepercayaan pelatihnya dengan tampil cukup bagus dan mampu menutup celah yang sering muncul antara lini tengah dan barisan depan. "Saya ingin melihatnya sejak menit awal. Ia tampil bagus dan memainkan bola yang sangat penting untuk bola-bola pantulan dari lawan. Saya senang dengan permainannya," kata Donadoni.
"Di Natale selalu bermain bagus. Dia sungguh luar biasa," kata pemain timnas Italia tahun 1986-1996 itu. Di lini belakang, Andrea Barzagli menyingkirkan Marco Materazzi sebagai starter bek tengah dan berduet dengan Fabio Cannavaro.
Del Piero dan Cassano
Pada babak kedua, Donadoni mengganti enam pemainnya dan mencoba pola alternatif 4-3-1-2. Ia menurunkan striker Alessandro Del Piero untuk berduet dengan Toni dan memasang Antonio Cassano di belakang mereka sebagai striker lubang.
Di Piala Dunia 2006, Del Piero sering ditempatkan Pelatih Marcello Lippi di sayap kiri dalam formasi tridente 4-3-3. Namun, ia pernah mengeluhkan hal itu dan kini disiapkan Donadoni sebagai striker murni. Cassano, yang baru saja mendapat kontrak permanen di Sampdoria setelah dilepas Real Madrid, tampil cukup bagus seolah ingin membuktikan dia layak tampil di Piala Eropa 2008.
Meski menghasilkan satu gol, pola 4-3-1-2 tersebut belum teruji keampuhannya karena baru dicoba dalam setengah babak. Apalagi, Donadoni menyiapkan hanya sekali uji coba sebelum tampil di Austria-Swiss.
Dari uji coba tersebut, Donadoni secara khusus menyoroti kiper Gianluigi Buffon yang dinilai 'gila' saat membiarkan gol balasan Belgia pada injury time. "Saya tidak suka cara kami membiarkan gol itu terjadi. Itu bukti kami telah berhenti dari permainan. Ini tidak bagus," katanya.
Tim Italia bertolak ke markas mereka selama Piala Eropa 2008, di luar kota Vienna, Senin besok. Mereka akan melawan Belanda pada perdana di Bern, 9 Juni.

[AlanAja]

Mao tanya ama fans2 Italia.. emang pantas ga seh De Rossi memakai no. 10 :-/.. jujur kalo gw pribadi seharusnya no. 10 diberikan kepada Pirlo or Del Piero karena mereka ber2 mampu mengemban tugas tersebut dikhawatirkan kalo De Rossi memakai no. 10 ada tuntutan dari fans Italia agar mampu seperti pendahulunya Totti or Baggio.. gw mao tau tanggapannya :).. Forza Milan !!!!

[bocah_kere]

@atas
stju da alan..Mnrt ane shrsnya yg mmkai no 10 alex del piero or pirlo..secara de rossi jg jrng jdi starter d timnas.bahkan waktu kmaren uji coba lawan belgia, DDR gk maen jadi starter,mlh tmn s'klubnya aquilani yg maen dluan

[7.roNaLdo]

Cannavaro cidera
Ini link nya pas di tekel ma chielini
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVw5xDsgMv4&feature=related
Kayaknya di ganti ama barzagli de..
Kapten nya delpiero atw buffon

[Nasty]

Sebagai pendukung Gli Azzuri,..
Ane lbh setuju si Alex Del Piero yg cocok mengemban tugas sbg Il Capitano,..
Apalagi Italia ada di group Neraka di Euro 2008,
Butuh bimbingan dr para senior spt dia,..
Agar lolos babak berikutnya,..

[jeemack]

Milan methods inform friendly rivals

http://en.euro2008.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/EURO/70/67/28/706728_w2.jpg
Roberto Donadoni & Marco van Basten(AC Milan) (©AFP)


Roberto Donadoni will come face to face with an old friend when Italy meet the Netherlands in their Group C opener on Monday, but the Azzurri coach told euro2008.com that he is determined to "put one over" on his ex-AC Milan team-mate and Dutch counterpart, Marco van Basten.

Milan legends
Donadoni and Van Basten go back a long way. Part of the famous Milan side that swept all before them – winning four league titles and three European Champion Clubs' Cups between 1988 and 1994 – the former cultured midfielder and deadly striker are still as thick as thieves. Now, though, Donadoni will put sentiment to one side as he aims to scale the heights as an international team coach. "Over the last few years we've seen each other quite a lot," explained Donadoni. "We probably meet up twice a year or so as we have a great friendship that dates back to our playing days. But we know that this is an important match, so when we see each other we will shake hands like old friends and then try and put one over on each other."

Tactical apprenticeship
Along with Carlo Ancelotti, Frank Rijkaard and Ruud Gullit, the Italy and Netherlands bosses both played under Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello before stepping into the coaching arena themselves. Donadoni admits that this apprenticeship played a key part in their tactical development. "There's no doubt that we had some very good teachers, from whom we learned a lot," he said. "We all experienced some very special times, playing for a great side like Milan, and so these experiences undoubtedly helped us. It must be satisfying for the people who coached us. I learned much from Sacchi, Capello and others and now I hope to pass on what I learned to my players."

Daunting
After the Netherlands, Donadoni's players must also face France and Romania and he knows that coming through this daunting-looking section will not be easy. "I can only see good sides in this group. They came through tough qualifying campaigns and so they all have great potential to do well. We know they will pose us all sorts of problems, as we will them. We just have to put everything we have in the balance, as will our opponents, and in the end each of us hopes our qualities will outweigh the other."

'Positive frame of mind'
Donadoni believes that Italy's qualification for the tournament is already an achievement in itself given that the last time they won the FIFA World Cup, in 1982, they failed to reach the European finals in France two years later. "We reached this tournament after coming through a decidedly difficult qualifying section – and history wasn't on our side. But when it came to the crunch my players showed that they were good enough again and they deserved to get reach this stage. So we're looking forward with a positive frame of mind."

[jeemack]

08/06/2008 12:18

Donadoni Chooses De Rossi Over Ambrosini

http://www.goal.com/images/23650_news.jpg
De Rossi

According to reports in Italy, Roberto Donadoni has chosen his team for tomorrow’s opening Euro 2008 match against Holland.

The Azzurri open up their Euros campaign with a tough match in Berne against the Dutch of Marco Van Basten.

The Italian newspapers are doing their usual second guessing before the match as they try to work out the team that Donadoni will employ.

According to the latest reports in Italy, Donadoni will go with a 4-1-4-1 formation, and the two main talking points are in the centre of defence and midfield.

Roma’s Daniele De Rossi has purportedly been preferred to Milan’s Massimo
Ambrsoini, and will play the anchor role in front of the defence.

Meanwhile, following Arjen Robben’s injury yesterday, Donadoni has realised that pace is not such an important entity in defence, and has decided to partner Marco Materazzi with Andrea Barzagli in the centre, with Gianluca Zambrotta on the right and Fabio Grosso on the left.

Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso make up the other central midfield positions, while there is the flexible forward trident of Antonio Di Natale, Mauro Camoranesi and Luca Toni, which will allow Italy to employ three, four, or five in midfield depending on the situation.

Anthony Sormani

[jeemack]

08/06/2008 12:43

Del Piero: I Want To Be Captain

http://www.goal.com/images/29679_news.jpg
Alessandro Del Piero

Italy forward Alessandro Del Piero has declared that he wants to become the new captain of the Azzurri at Euro 2008, although he admits that Gianluigi Buffon is also up to the job.


The Azzurri need to appoint a new skipper for the Euros following the injury and subsequent withdrawal of Fabio Cannavaro.

The general system in Italy is that the highest capped player in the squad is given the armband, and that is Del Piero, who has made 86 appearances for his country.

However as Del Piero is not considered a first team regular, it is highly likely that the second in the list, Gianluigi Buffon, who has 82 caps, will be granted the honour of leading out his country against Holland tomorrow evening.

Del Piero insists that he already feels like the captain, although he says that Buffon will also do a great job.

"I feel already like the captain and am ready for the responsibility,” said The Golden Boy.

“However there are other champions in this group that can do it too. As can Gigi, of course."

Anthony Sormani

[jeemack]

07/06/2008 9:19

Andrea Pirlo: Italia Sekarang Lebih Kuat

http://goal.com/images/23825_hp.jpg

Sesumbar dilontarkan Andrea Pirlo. Gelandang pengatur serangan Italia itu menilai timnya sekarang lebih kuat dibandingkan saat tampil di Piala Dunia 2006. Itu sebabnya ia yakin Azzurri bisa menaklukkan Belanda dalam laga perdana Gruip C Euro 2008.

Sikap sesumbar ditunjukkan tim Italia. Mereka merasa skuad Gli Azzurr di Euro 2008 ini lebih kuat dibandingkan saat menjuarai Piala Dunia 2006 silam.

Gelandang pengatur serangan Italia, Andrea Pirlo, mengatakan di Baden, Austria, Jumat (6/6), secara mentalitas, tim Italia kini lebih tangguh dibandingkan dua tahun silam ketika menjuarai Piala Dunia di Jerman. Karena itulah ia merasa yakin skuad Azzurri mampu mengatasi Belanda di laga perdana di Grup C, Senin (9/6) pekan depan di Berne, Swiss.

"Kalau dibandingkan dua tahun yang lalu di Jerman, tim kami lebih kuat dan punya kesadaran kuat bahwa kemampuan kami cukup hebat," ujar Pirlo (30) di markas latihan Italia di Baden, Austria.

Oleh gelandang asal AC Milan itu dijelaskan, Italia sangat berhasrat menjuarai Euro 2008 karena merasa sudah terlalu lama menunggu kesempatan jadi kampiun lagi. "Italia tidak pernah lagi jadi juara Eropa selama 40 tahun terakhir. Itu rangsangan yang hebat. Sangat cantik bagi kami buat membawa pulang trofi juara setelah menunggu begitu lama," tambah Pirlo.

Meski bakal tampil tanpa diperkuat oleh kapten tim yang kharismatik, Fabio Cannavaro, Italia diyakini Pirlo punya peluang sangat besar buat menjuarai Euro 2008 di Swiss-Austria nanti. "Italia mampu melakukan itu kendati tanpa kehadiran Cannavaro yang cedera dan membuat kami kehilangan. Kami punya alternatif bagus. Jadi, kami di sini buat meraih mengawinkan gelar juara Piala Dunia dengan Piala Eropa seperti pernah dilakukan Jerman dan Prancis," paparnya.

Andrea Pirlo merupakan pemain yang dianggap sebagai salah satu gelandang terbaik di putaran final Euro 2008 ini. Kemampuannya mencetak gol lewat tendangan bebas langsung, dan keahlian memberi umpan matang dari jarak 60 meter pada para striker, menjadikan ia disebut-sebut sebagai salah satu gelandang terbaik dunia sekarang ini.

Kini Pirlo diincar oleh Chelsea, Real Madrid dan Barcelona. Tapi ia masih merasa betah bertahan di AC Milan. "Sebenarnya saya tidak mau bicara soal ini pada orang lain. Agen saya telah menerima tawaran dari klub-klub Spanyol, dan itu membuat saya bahagia. Tapi di Milan saya punya segala yang saya inginkan," tandasnya.

[jeemack]

08/06/2008 16:05

Euro 2008 Preview: Holland-Italy

What: European Championships, Group C
Who: Holland vs Italy
When: Monday 9 June 2008, 20:45 CET
Where: Stade de Suisse, Berne
Referee: Peter Frojfeldt (SWE)


http://goal.com/images/10670_news.jpg
Andrea Pirlo


The first of the big clashes in the ‘Group of Death’ sees World Champions Italy take on Holland at the Stade de Suisse in Berne.

Twenty Years On

Twenty years have now passed since Holland’s one and only major international trophy, when Rinus Michel’s outstanding side won Euro ’88 following a 2-0 final success over the USSR.

In that team was current Dutch manager Marco Van Basten, who scored probably the best goal in European Championship history, with a stunning volley from Arnold Muhren’s raking pass. At Euro 2008 Van Basten, who has already announced that he will be leaving at the end of the competition to take over at Ajax, is hoping to become the first person in history to win the Euros both as a player and as a coach.

However the former Milan striker knows he faces an extremely difficult task even to get through the group stages, having been drawn alongside Romania, France, and Monday’s opponents Italy.

The relatively youthful and inexperienced Dutch struggled at times during their qualification, eventually finishing second in Group G, behind Romania. However their form in 2008 has been good, albeit not against the strongest of opposition. The Oranje have won four of their five matches this calendar year, drawing the other, and in their last warm-up test, defeated Wales 2-0.

Italy Going For The Double

World Champions Italy are attempting to repeat France’s feat from 2000, and hold both major international trophies at the same time.

The Azzurri, now coached by Roberto Donadoni, would be the favourites for this competition had they not been handed such a tough draw, in which there is the possibility of them also playing Spain in the quarter-finals, and France or Holland again in the semis.

For a while it seemed as if the Azzurri were not even going to make it to the Euros. Coach Roberto Donadoni, who replaced the legendary Marcello Lippi after the success in Germany, had a dreadful start to his reign, picking up just one point from his first two qualifiers.

However Italy then went on an outstanding run, picking up 28 points out of a possible 30 to finish top of a tough qualifying group including Scotland, Ukraine and rivals France.

Italy have largely impressed in their three friendlies this year, beating both Portugal and Belgium 3-1, and losing somewhat unfortunately 1-0 in Spain.

Past Meetings

Holland and Italy have only met twice in a major international tournament. The first was in the second group stages of the 1978 World Cup, when the Oranje came from behind to book their place in the final with a 2-1 win.

Since then the Dutch have actually failed to beat Italy, losing six and drawing just two from eight games. One of these was the epic Euro 2000 semi-final in Holland. The hosts were strong favourites to win the match, and they were boosted after just 34 minutes when Gianluca Zambrotta was sent off.

However some heroic defending from Dino Zoff’s men, not to mention two penalty misses from Frank De Boer and Patrick Kluivert ensured the game went to penalties, where Italy emerged victorious 3-1, with Francesco Toldo saving another two spot-kicks to crown a man-of-the-match display.

The last time the two teams played was in a friendly in November 2005, with Italy winning 3-1 in Amsterdam thanks to goals from Alberto Gilardino, Mauro Camoranesi and Luca Toni, with Ryan Babel hitting the Dutch goal.

Van Basten and Donadoni were part of the all-conquering Milan side of the late 1980s and early 90s, but it was the latter who had the upper hand in clashes between Holland and Italy. As a player Van Basten lost three and drew one of his four matches against the Azzurri, never once finding the net.

FORM GUIDE

Holland

01/06 (Friendly): Holland-Wales 2-0
29/05 (Friendly): Holland-Denmark 1-1
24/05 (Friendly): Holland-Ukraine 3-0
26/03 (Friendly): Austria-Holland 3-4
06/02 (Friendly): Croatia-Holland 0-3

Italy

29/05 (Friendly): Italy-Belgium 3-1
26/03 (Friendly): Spain-Italy 1-0
06/02 (Friendly played in Zurich): Italy-Portugal 3-1
21/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier): Italy-Faroe Islands 3-1
17/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier): Scotland-Italy 1-2

TEAM NEWS

Holland

Holland have been dealt a number of blows coming into the game, the biggest of all came on Saturday when Arjen Robben was ruled out after picking up a groin problem. He will probably be replaced by young PSV player Ibrahim Afellay. Clarence Seedorf had already long pulled out of the squad citing personal reasons, while Ryan Babel suffered an ankle ligament injury on the eve of the tournament and was replaced by Khalid Boulahrouz. Robin Van Persie is not fit enough to start, and will probably play no part in the game. Mario Melchiot faces a race against time due to a pelvic complaint, but Wesley Sneijder should play despite an injury scare in training.

Italy

The Azzurri have some problems in defence, having been robbed of the services of inspirational captain Fabio Cannavaro, who injured his ankle in training and has been replaced in the squad by Alessandro Gamberini. Christian Panucci had been a doubt for the game too due to a knee problem, however he should be available. Donadoni will probably employ a forward trident of Mauro Camoranesi, Luca Toni and the in-form Antonio Di Natale.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Holland – Edwin Van Der Sar

Given Holland's defensive shortcomings, it is likely that Van der Sar will be called into action on more than one occasion, so the Manchester United man will be hoping for a more assured performance than he gave during normal time of the recent Champions League final against Chelsea.

Italy – Luca Toni

Toni is the focal point of every Italy attack, and will have a lot to say if the Azzurri are to go all the way in Austria and Switzerland. The Bayern Munich bomber hit a stunning 39 goals in all competitions for his club, and will be the favourite with the bookmakers to score first in this game. The last time these two teams met in 2005, Toni bullied the Dutch defence all night, scoring in a 3-1 win. The 31-year-old will surely fancy his chances against what, on paper, looks like a rather shaky Oranje backline.

PREDICTION

With both sides hit by problems in defence, one thing that seems certain is that there will be chances and goals in this game. Italy are slow starters usually in tournaments, but nevertheless if their forwards are on form it will be difficult for a weak Dutch defence to cope with them. The absence of Robben is also a massive blow for the Dutch, as he is the one player whose pace could have really hurt the Cannavaro-less Azzurri..

Holland 1-3 Italy

Anthony Sormani

[henndri]

Nice info ....................

[Kamikaze-Kun]

Yah... Kalah 3-0.. Gimana neh bek-nya? Pada lari ke depan semua.. :(

[bocah_kere]

http://bola.okezone.com/images-data/content/2008/06/09/51/117164/7XS0khKfID.jpg
Foto: AP





Amauri Ingin Main untuk Italia

TURIN - Amauri Carvalho kecewa terhadap negara kelahirannya Brasil. Untuk itu, Amauri menegaskan siap pindah warga negara dari Brasil ke Italia, guna membela Azzurri di Piala Dunia 2010 nanti.
Amauri adalah salah satu bomber terbaik di Serie A. Bahkan, saat ini dia tengah menunggu paspor untuk menjadi warga negara Italia. Kabarnya, paspor itu akan keluar beberapa bulan mendatang. �
Hingga saat ini, Amauri belum sekalipun membela Brasil. Hal ini membuat mantan bomber Palermo itu memiliki keinginan untuk bermain membela Azzurri, begitu dia resmi menjadi warga negara Italia.
"Ini sungguh memalukan. Padahal, saya sudah bermain cukup baik dan pantas mendapatkan kesempatan dari pelatih Brasil Carlos Dunga," ujar Amauri seperti dilansir Goal, Senin (9/6/2008).
"Saya sudah tidak sabar lagi. Sebenarnya, saya menjadikan Brasil sebagai pilihan utama. Tapi, saya juga bangga membela Italia. Pasalnya, pelatih Italia Roberto Donadoni selalu memuji saya," tegasnya.

"Oleh karena itu, saya berharap bisa bermain di Piala Dunia 2010 di Afrika Selatan. Duet Luca Toni dan saya tentu tidak akan buruk bukan," tandas pemain 27 tahun itu.

[mahasiswa72]

sayang banget ya italy dihajar 3-0 ama belanda.

[jeemack]

12/06/2008 17:03
Euro 2008 Preview: Italy - Romania

What: European Championships, Group C
Who: Italy (4th, 0pts) vs Romania (3rd, 1pt)
When: Friday 13 June 2008, 17:00 CET
Where: Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich

http://www.goal.com/images/29679_news.jpg


Do-Or-Die For Italy

Italy come into this match knowing that they simply have to win if they are to keep qualification for the knockout stages in their own hands.

The Azzurri were torn apart in their opening group match on Monday, losing 3-0 to Holland in Berne, with Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Wesley Sneijder and Giovanni Van Bronckhorst grabbing the goals.

Roberto Donadoni has since been crucified by the Italian press over his mind-boggling team selection after he chose the out-of-form Marco Materazzi in defence, left the in-form Fabio Grosso on the bench, and preferred Massimo Ambrosini to Daniele De Rossi in midfield.

Donadoni will surely make wholesale changes for the match against Romania, and there has been a press campaign for both Alessandro Del Piero and Antonio Cassano to start after they impressed as late second half substitutes against Holland.

It is not all doom-and-gloom for Italy, and a win here will put them back into the running for qualification. A defeat will see them eliminated, while a draw will leave them requiring both of the results to go their way in the final games of the group, when the Azzurri take on France.

Romania Out To Surprise Again

When the Group C draw was made, Romania were almost immediately discarded as the also-rans, with Italy, France and Holland expected to fight it out for the two qualification places.

However Victor Piţurcă’s men proved in their first match of the group against France that they are no pushovers, as they produced a superb tactical performance to draw 0-0, limiting Les Bleus to few chances the entire game.

While Romania rarely threatened themselves, they did prove that defensively they are a solid and organised unit, and they will surely set themselves up in a similar way against an Italy side who know that they simply have to win.

If the Tricolorii were to obtain a point in this match, it would mean that a victory in their final game of the group against Holland would be enough to qualify. For this reason a cautious approach at the Letzigrund Stadium is a virtual certainty.

It will be a special game for Christian Chivu, Paul Codrea and Adrian Mutu, who all play their club football in Italy, for Inter, Siena and Fiorentina respectively.

These two teams met in the quarter-finals of Euro 2000, with Francesco Totti and Pippo Inzaghi scoring in a 2-0 Azzurri win. The legendary Gheorghe Hagi hit the post for Romania, caused a serious injury for Antonio Conte, and was later sent off in an eventful game.

FORM GUIDE

Italy

09/06 (Euro 2008): Holland-Italy 3-0

29/05 (Friendly): Italy-Belgium 3-1

26/03 (Friendly): Spain-Italy 1-0

06/02 (Friendly played in Zurich): Italy-Portugal 3-1

21/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier): Italy-Faroe Islands 3-1

Romania

09/06 (Euro 2008): Romania-France 0-0

31/05 (Friendly): Romania-Montenegro 4-0

26/03 (Friendly): Romania-Russia 3-0

06/02 (Friendly): Israel-Romania 1-0

21/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier) Romania-Albania 6-1

TEAM NEWS

Italy

Roberto Donadoni will surely ring the changes for this game. Marco Materazzi and Andrea Barzagli are both set to be dropped, with Giorgio Chiellini and Fabio Grosso coming in to form a defensive reshuffle. Daniele De Rossi will certainly start in midfield, as will new captain Alex Del Piero up-front. Antonio Cassano is still only likely to be on the substitutes bench.

Probable XI: Buffon; Zambrotta, Panucci, Chiellini, Grosso; De Rossi, Pirlo, Ambrosini; Camoranesi, Toni, Del Piero

Romania

Romania will play the same disciplined system they employed successfully against France. Ciprian Marica will recover from a head injury but will probably be on the bench, with Daniel Niculae preferred. Christian Chivu will again play in centre midfield following his outstanding performance on Monday. Nicolae Dica may get the nod on the left of midfield after impressing in training this week.

Probable XI: Lobont; Contra, Tamas, Goian, Rat; Nicolita, Codrea, Chivu, Dica; D Niculae, Mutu

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Italy – Alessandro Del Piero: Restored to the Italy line-up after impressing as a substitute against the Dutch, for the first time possibly in his international career, the Italian nation is actually relying on the Golden Boy to dig them out of a hole. The 33-year-old has just had his best season in a decade, finishing top-scorer in Serie A, and will surely be high in confidence.

Romania – Christian Chivu: The Inter man was an absolute colossus against France. He was authoritative and oozed class in an unfamiliar centre midfield position. Having played in Serie A for a number of years now, he will know his opponents well, and if he can take charge in the middle-of-the-park like the Dutch did, then Romania may fancy their chances of another upset. Chivu will be up against old Roma colleague Daniele De Rossi.

PREDICTION

The pattern that this match will follow is very easy to predict. Italy simply have to win and will be on the front foot, while Romania will sit back and play for the draw as, if they get a point, they know that a win in their last group game against Holland will guarantee qualification. Italy to just pinch it, with Del Piero grabbing the winner.

Italy 1-0 Romania

Roberto Rossi

[mahasiswa72]

malam ini aku dukung penuh ITALY bro...

[thordal]

Sama...... gue juga !!!!!:D

[Nasty]

Meski nasib Italia & Perancis b'gantung pd Belanda,..
Tp sbg fans Italy ane dukung 100% u/ Gli Azzuri,..=D>

[7.roNaLdo]

@atas :ane dukung situ juga.. Forza Italy

[collypus]

italy harus lolos tapi tergantung dengan pertandingan belanda v rumania... :(
mudah²an italy bisa lolos dech :)

[SiWe]

Qta smua sbg pendukung timnas italia,.. b'doa agar Belanda ga maen2x.
Shg bs serius mengalahkan Romania.
Dan kl romania kalah,.. Italia wajib/kudu menang melawan Perancis,..
Yuk qta dukung rame2x,..

[Kamikaze-Kun]

Belanda harus menang lawan Rumania. Itali harus menang lawan Perancis. Udah harga mati..!!!! Forza Azzuri..!!!

[DarthVaderX]

Belanda harus menang lawan Rumania. Itali harus menang lawan Perancis. Udah harga mati..!!!! Forza Azzuri..!!!

Kayaknya Italy n France gak akan lolosdech, soalnya Belanda juga bakal nurunin pemain cadangan semua. Lagian mending Rumania yang lolos, soalnya Italy pernah bikin Belanda gak lolos di Euro 2000 (sekalian balas dendam hehehe). Saya pribadi sih lebih suka Rumania yang lolos, daripada di Semifinal kalo lancar bisa ketemu Italy lagi kalo dibiarin lolos. B-)

[DarthVaderX]

12/06/2008 17:03
Euro 2008 Preview: Italy - Romania

What: European Championships, Group C
Who: Italy (4th, 0pts) vs Romania (3rd, 1pt)
When: Friday 13 June 2008, 17:00 CET
Where: Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich

http://www.goal.com/images/29679_news.jpg




PREDICTION

The pattern that this match will follow is very easy to predict. Italy simply have to win and will be on the front foot, while Romania will sit back and play for the draw as, if they get a point, they know that a win in their last group game against Holland will guarantee qualification. Italy to just pinch it, with Del Piero grabbing the winner.

Italy 1-0 Romania

Roberto Rossi

Hehehe prediksinya salah, hampir kalah malahan....!!!!

[7.roNaLdo]

Kayaknya Italy n France gak akan lolosdech, soalnya Belanda juga bakal nurunin pemain cadangan semua. Lagian mending Rumania yang lolos, soalnya Italy pernah bikin Belanda gak lolos di Euro 2000 (sekalian balas dendam hehehe). Saya pribadi sih lebih suka Rumania yang lolos, daripada di Semifinal kalo lancar bisa ketemu Italy lagi kalo dibiarin lolos. B-)


Belanda bukannya ga lolos ke euro 2000 gara2 italy bro, tp ga lolos ke final euro 2000 karena kalah pinalti ama itali..

[AlanAja]

semoga ada keajaiban untuk Italia :).. tragis juga Juara Dunia gagal lolos.. Forza Milan !!!!

[DarthVaderX]

Belanda bukannya ga lolos ke euro 2000 gara2 italy bro, tp ga lolos ke final euro 2000 karena kalah pinalti ama itali..

Belanda gak masuk bs ke puncak euro 2000 karena kalah penalti sama italy.

[DarthVaderX]

semoga ada keajaiban untuk Italia :).. tragis juga Juara Dunia gagal lolos.. Forza Milan !!!!

Nggak tragis kok bro, emang maennya lagi jelek bgt tuh italy. mungkin lawan lawan spanyol aja kalo sekarang dibabat juga.

[AlanAja]

Nggak tragis kok bro, emang maennya lagi jelek bgt tuh italy. mungkin lawan lawan spanyol aja kalo sekarang dibabat juga.

ah ga juga.. bagus kok maen Italia.. cuman strikernya aja yang bermasalah.. wew jangan sombong bro ;)).. tim sekelas Turki bisa lolos bisa jadi mereka juara seperti Yunani.. so di Euro adalah ajang paling ketat dan sulit diprediksi sapa yang jadi juara.. kalo ga salah di Euro 2000.. Yugoslavia yang sekarang bernama Serbia.. pernah bantai lawan mpe setengah lusin.. toh mereka gagal.. apalagi Euro 2004.. ga da yang nyangka ama perjalanan Yunani.. yang notabene membawa permainan defensif yang mengandalkan efektivitas doank.. jadi berharaplah Italia bisa lolos ;).. Forza Milan !!!!

[bocah_kere]

Update : Prancis vs Italia 0 - 2...Pirlo pen,De rossi.
Next match Senin pukul 01.45 WIB dinihari Spain vs Italia..

[Nasty]

Forza gli Azzuri,..=D>

Thx 4 the Dutch team,..=D>

Now focus on Spain,..x(

Poor to France,..:p

Right on dude,..:D

[Kamikaze-Kun]

ah ga juga.. bagus kok maen Italia.. cuman strikernya aja yang bermasalah..

Bener bro.. Menurut gw, mending DP ato Di Natale yang didepan dari pada Toni. Sepertinya Toni susah bergerak karena dipepet mulu. Terlalu tinggi.. :D

Kebanyakan bola2 yang dia tendang ke arah gawang rata2 melebar ke kiri semua.. Kalo gw jadi Donadoni, Begini neh gw pasang:

Buffon
Zambrotta - Panucci - Chiellini - Grosso
Camoranesi - De Rossi - Pirlo
Perotta
Toni - Del Piero

Hehehehe... Piss... :D

[KP1]

syukur italia bisa ke babak selanjutnya, tp tanpa pirlo !!!!!!
Salut bt Van persie yg udh fair play.
Forza italia

[bocah_kere]

Prakiraan formasi Spain vs Italy..Minus Gattuso n Pirlo..
- Buffon
- Zambrotta,Panucci, Chiellini,Grosso..
- Camoranesi,De Rossi, Aquilani..
- Cassano,Toni,Del Piero

neyh formasi menurut perkiraan ane..

[Kamikaze-Kun]

Prakiraan formasi Spain vs Italy..Minus Gattuso n Pirlo..
- Buffon
- Zambrotta,Panucci, Chiellini,Grosso..
- Camoranesi,De Rossi, Aquilani..
- Cassano,Toni,Del Piero

neyh formasi menurut perkiraan ane..

Hmm.. Mudah2an bukan 4-3-3..

[AlanAja]

Hmm.. Mudah2an bukan 4-3-3..

bukannya lawan Prancis pake formasi 4-1-4-1 :-/.. maaf kalo ane salah :D.. Forza Milan !!!!

[PangeraN.]

Moga2 aja menang lawan spanyol..
FORZA JUVENTUS...!!!

[bocah_kere]

Moga2 aja menang lawan spanyol..
FORZA JUVENTUS...!!!

itu harga mati bro..!!
Porja Milan !!!

[zlatan_wijaya]

Perkiraan Ane Pemain Yang Akan Turun
Gk: Buffon.
Sb; Zambrotta And Grosso.
Cb: Panucci And Chielini.
Mf: Camoranesi, De Rossi, Di Natale, And Perotta
Am: Cassano
Fc: Toni,
Prediksi Ane Italy Menang Penalty

[AlanAja]

Perkiraan Ane Pemain Yang Akan Turun
Gk: Buffon.
Sb; Zambrotta And Grosso.
Cb: Panucci And Chielini.
Mf: Camoranesi, De Rossi, Di Natale, And Perotta
Am: Cassano
Fc: Toni,
Prediksi Ane Italy Menang Penalty

loh yang menang Spanyol bro ;)).. Forza Milan !!!!

[AlanAja]

Standing Ovation buat pemain2 Italia =D>.. emang berat untuk ajang Euro.. secara Italia juga udah lama tidak mengenggam trophy 40 tahun yang lalu.. semoga dengan kegagalan ini.. Italia bisa berbenah untuk menuju PD 2010 ;).. Forza Milan !!!!


http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x66/alanleite/alandoank/Spain-32.jpg

http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x66/alanleite/alandoank/Spain-22.jpg

[bocah_kere]

Donadoni Lengser Jumat ?




MILAN - Posisi Roberto Donadoni semakin terpojok. Peluangnya untuk mempertahankan singgasananya sebagai pelatih Italia semakin tipis, yang rumornya dia akan dipaksa untuk lengser pada Jumat (27/6/2008).

Kabar itu dilansir Kantor Berita Italia ANSA. Donadoni akan bertemu Presiden FIGC Giancarlo Abete pada Jumat. Setelah itu the Don akan bertemu Presiden Lega Caldio Antonio Mattarese, Demetrio Albertini, dan manajer Azzurri gigi Riva.

Menurut ANSA The Don kemungkinan besar akan menuruti perintah Abete untuk lengser. Ini di luar dugaan dimana pria berusia 44 tahun itu sempat menegaskan tidak akan bisa dipaksa turun dari jabatannya.

Seperti dikutip Goal, Selasa (24/6/2008), jika skenarionya berjalan dengan baik, FIGC akan membayar kompensasi sebesar 550,000 euro kepada The Don.

Kegagalan Italia menembus babak semifinal Euro 2008 menjadi penyebab utama kekecewaan pihak FIGC, maupun Lega Calcio Setali tiga uang The Don juga nampaknya tidak mau berhadapan dengan media di Italia yang beberapa hari ini terus menyerangnya terkait kekalahan Italia dari Spanyol dalam drama adu penalti.

[jeemack]

BBC: Italia Pecat Donadoni

Selasa, 24 Juni 2008


http://pialaeropa.detiksport.com/images/content/2008/06/24/514/Donadoni-c.jpg


Berita Bola: Jakarta - Timnas Italia tidak lagi ditangani oleh Roberto Donadoni di masa mendatang mulai hari ini setelah keluar keputusan pemecatan dari FIGC, demikian informasi yang disebarkan BBC.

Dikutip dari situs BBC Sport, Selasa (24/6/2008), media cukup berpengaruh di Inggris ini mendapat informasi didepaknya Donadoni itu dari asosiasi sepakbola Italia FIGC setelah hampir seminggu terakhir bermunculan spekulasi mengenai pemecatan ini.

FIGC, dalam keterangannya kepada BBC, menginformasikan bahwa Donadoni akan dibebaskan dari ikatan kontraknya.

Kegagalan Donadoni membawa Azzurri ke posisi bergengsi di Euro 2008 diduga kuat menjadi alasan utama pemecatan dirinya. Selain itu ikatan kontraknya yang hingga 2010 dengan timnas Italia juga tidak begitu kuat, mengingat ada klausul yang menyebutkan FIGC berhak mendepaknya bila Donadoni gagal di Euro 2008.

Adapun pihak FIGC belum mengklarifikasi ataupun membuat pengumuman pasti mengenai hal itu dalam situs resminya, atau kepada media. Donadoni sendiri juga belum mengeluarkan pernyataan berkaitan dengan kabar yang disebarkan BBC ini.

Meski demikian, gencar diisukan bahwa kepastian mengenai nasib Donadoni tinggal menunggu waktu saja. Apalagi presiden FIGC Giancarlo Abate juga menegaskan bahwa pihaknya akan melakukan pertemuan dalam beberapa hari ke depan untuk memutuskan nasibnya.

"Kami akan mengevaluasi seluruh langkah kami," tegasnya beberapa saat lalu.

[jeemack]

FIGC Bantah Pemecatan Donadoni

Rabu, 25 Juni 2008

http://pialaeropa.detiksport.com/images/content/2008/06/25/514/Donadoni3-cov.jpg

Berita Bola: Roma - Kabar pemecatan Roberto Donadoni dari timnas Italia ternyata belum benar adanya. Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) pun membantah kabar yang diberitakan oleh BBC.

BBC hari ini telah menginformasikan Donadoni telah dicopot jabatannya sebagai pelatih Gli Azzurri. Hal itu menyusul tersingkirnya Italia di perempatfinal setelah dikalahkan oleh Spanyol lewat adu penalti.

Namun, FIGC dengan cepat membantah kabar pemecatan Donadoni tersebut. "Segala keputusan akan dibuat dalam bneberpa hari ke depan," kata FIGC dalam statementnya seperti dilansir Football Italia.

Donadoni telah memperpanjang kontraknya hingga 2010 hanya satu hari sebelum Euro 2008 dimulai. Namun ikatan kontraknya tidak kuat karena ada klausul yang menyebutkan FIGC berhak mendepaknya jika gagal di Euro 2008.

Pernyataan FIGC juga diperkuat oleh Presiden Komite Olimpiade Italia Gianni Petrucci. "Donadoni masih tetap masih tetap menjadi pelatih dan saya akan tetap mendukung penuh keputusan federasi." tukasnya.

[jeemack]

Italia Pecat Donadoni

[/URL] [URL="http://www.beritabola.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=emailform&id=15830&itemid=51"] (http://www.beritabola.com/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15830&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=51) Kamis, 26 Juni 2008

http://pialaeropa.detiksport.com/images/content/2008/06/26/514/donadoniAlbertoPizzoli-cov.jpg

Berita Bola: Roma - FIGC (Federasi Sepakbola Italia) akhirnya mengeluarkan pernyataan resmi mengenai nasib Roberto Donadoni. Hasilnya, seperti yang sudah diduga banyak orang: Donadoni dipecat.

Seperti diberitakan Reuters, keputusan tersebut diambil setelah mantan pelatih Livorno itu melakukan pertemuan dengan Presiden FIGC, Giancarlo Abete, hari ini, Kamis (26/6/2008) waktu setempat.

"Federasi sepakbola Italia ingin mengonfirmasikan bahwa kontrak Donadoni resmi berakhir," ungkap statemen resmi yang dikeluarkan FIGC.

"Presiden Abete telah melakukan pertemuan dengan Donadoni hari ini di kantor FIGC. Mereka membahas ulang pekerjaannya dalam dua tahun terakhir dan di Piala Eropa."

"Sembari menyatakan rasa respeknya secara pribadi dan menghormati kerja keras Donadoni, Presiden memberitahu bahwa FIGC tidak berniat untuk melanjutkan kontraknya."

Donadoni sebenarnya masih memiliki kontrak hingga tahun 2010. Namun, ada klausul yang mengungkapkan bahwa ikatan kerja pelatih berusia 44 tahun itu bisa berakhir apabila tidak ada persetujuan dari FIGC untuk melanjutkannya sampai tahun 2010.

Saat ini media massa di Italia tengah mereka-reka siapa pengganti Donadoni. Nama Marcello Lippi yang berhasil membawa Gli Azzurri menjuarai Piala Dunia 2006 muncul sebagai kandidat kuatnya.

[jeemack]

Arrivederci, Donadoni

Jumat, 27 Juni 2008

http://pialaeropa.detiksport.com/images/content/2008/06/27/514/DonadoniNundukAFPAlbertoPizzoli-200.jpg

Berita Bola: Milan - Roberto Donadoni coba berbesar hati setelah FIGC memutuskan bakal mencari pelatih baru untuk timnas Italia. Bukan rasa kesal, sesal atau getir yang dirasakannya. Dia hanya kecewa.

Donadoni menerima estafet kepelatihan Italia dari Marcello Lippi yang membawa Azzuri juara Piala Dunia 2006. Tapi di Euro 2008 Gianluigi Buffon cs tampil kurang meyakinkan dan akhirnya tersingkir di babak perempatfinal usai kalah adu penalti dari Spanyol. Donadoni pun harus minggir.

"Saya kecewa tendangan penalti bisa menyebabkan situasi ini. Tapi selama dua tahun saya melatih, tim Italia saya sudah menampilkan sesuatu yang bagus dan satu pertandingan tak bisa mengubah itu," ujar Donadoni seperti dikutip Channel 4.

"Itu pengalaman luar biasa dan saya dengan senang hati akan mengalaminya lagi. Bahkan saya mau saja mengulangi semuanya lagi karena saya punya kesadaran yang jelas mengenai semua yang sudah saya lakukan," lanjut dia.

Donadoni juga tak merasa sakit hati dengan Presiden FIGC Giancarlo Abete yang pastinya sedikit banyak memiliki peranan dalam soal penghentian kerjasama kedua pihak tersebut. Alih-alih kesal, Abete plus seluruh staff timnas Italia dapat ucapan terima kasih.

"Saya tak pernah merasa sendiri karena punya para pemain, staff dan orang-orang di sekitar saya," lugas Donadoni.

Tentang Marcelo Lippi yang besar kemungkinan akan kembali jadi pelatih Italia, Donadoni juga tak ambil pusing. "Orang-orang sudah bicara tentang Lippi selama dua tahun. Saya tak bertanya kepada Abete apakah mereka sudah pernah bertemu dengan Lippi. Semua orang bebas melakukan apa yang mereka mau dan saya takkan membicarakan perilaku orang lain."

Sampai jumpa lagi, Donadoni.

[jeemack]

Lippi Kembali Latih Italia

Jumat, 27 Juni 2008

http://pialaeropa.detiksport.com/images/content/2008/06/27/514/LippiAFP-cov.jpg

Berita Bola: Roma - Italia sudah memiliki pelatih baru. Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) telah mengumumkan bahwa Marcello Lippi kembali menjadi pelatih Italia guna menggantikan Roberto Donadoni.

Tidak butuh waktu lama untuk FIGC mencari pengganti baru untuk menggantikan posisi Donadoni yang baru saja dipecat beberapa jam lalu. FIGC akhirnya mengumumkan bahwa mereka telah menunjuk Lippi untuk kembali melatih Gli Azzurri.

"Marcello Lippi kembali menangani tim nasional," kata FIGC lewat statementnya seperti dilansir Reuters.

Namun belum diumumkan berapa lama pelatih berusia 60 tahun ini mengikat kontraknya di tim Italia. Sementara Corriere Dello Sport melaporkan bahwa Lippi telah setuju mengisi jabatan itu saat bertemu Presiden FIGC Giancarlo Abete di Roma, Rabu (25/6/2008) kemarin.

Ini merupakan kedua kalinya, Lippi melatih Gli Azzurri. Sebelumnya mantan pelatih Juventus dan Inter Milan ini menangani Italia pada 2004 hingga 2006. Ia sukses membawa skuad Italia menjadi juara di Piala Dunia 2006 setelah mengalahkan Prancis di final.

Kini Lippi akan mendapatkan tugas untuk membawa Italia mempertahankan gelarnya di Piala Dunia 2010. Sementara Donadoni telah resmi dipecat oleh FIGC setelah melakukan pertemuan dengan Abete, Kamis (27/6/2008) menyusul kekalahan Italia atas Spanyol di perempat final.

[martin180382]

goodbye doni...
wellcome lippi..

[ryan_wijaya]

Sepuluh Hari Lagi Lippi Bentuk Timnas Italia


http://www.kompas.com/data/photo/2008/05/29/2814524p.jpg
[/URL]
[URL="http://bola.kompas.com/read/xml/2008/08/06/0431024/sepuluh.hari.lagi.lippi.bentuk.timnas.italia#"] (http://www.kompas.com/data/photo/2008/05/29/2814524p.jpg)
Tim nasional Italia berpose di lapangan latihan di Coverciano, Firenze, Italia, bulan Mei lalu. Depan, dari kiri: Fabio Quagliarella, Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo, Fabio Cannavaro, Marco Amelia, Gianluigi Buffon, Morgan De Sanctis, Alessandro Del Piero, Gennaro Gattuso, Daniele De Rossi, dan Antonio Cassano. Tengah, dari kiri: Mauro Camoranesi, Simone Perrotta, staf tim Giovanni Andreini, Renato Buso, Gigi Riva dan pelatih Roberto Donadoni, Asisten Pelatih Mario Bortolazzi, Ivano Bordon, Gianluca Zambrotta, dan Riccardo Montolivo. Belakang, dari kiri: Alberto Aquilani, Marco Borriello, Massimo Ambrosini, Marco Materazzi, Luca Toni, Fabio Grosso, Christian Panucci, Andrea Barzagli, dan Giorgio Chiellini.







ROMA, RABU - Sepuluh hari lagi, tepatnya pada Sabtu (16/8), pelatih Italia, Marcello Lippi akan membentuk tim kesebelasan internasional Italia. Nama-nama ini akan bergabung bersama Gli Azzurri dalam pertandingan persahabatan versus Austria, Rabu (20/8).
Ini merupakan kedua kalinya Lippi membentuk tim Italia setelah menggantikan Roberto Donadoni yang gagal membawa Italia lolos perempat final Euro 2008. Federasi sepak bola Italia atau FIGC telah mengeluarkan jadwal persiapan bagi Lippi menjelang pada pertandingan yang akan berlangsung di Stadion Du Ray, Nice, Prancis, tersebut. Tim akan berkumpul di pusat pelatihan Coverciano, Firenze, dua hari setelah Lippi mengumumkan skuad barunya, yakni Senin (18/8). Mereka akan terbang ke Prancis sehari kemudian.
Sampai kini masi belum diketahui pemain mana saja yang memiliki kandidat kuat bakal memperkuat juara dunia tersebut. Lippi pernah mengatakan akan mempertahankan tim bentukan Donadoni dan menambah beberapa pemain baru. Lippi sempat berharap agar Francesco Totti dan Alesandro Nesta dapat memperkuat skuad barunya, tapi kemungkinan keduanya bermain lagi amat kecil. Totti masih berjuang dengan cederanya, sementara Nesta sudah bertekad bulat pensiun dari laga internasional.
Nama-nama pemain muda seperti bintang Fiorentina, Riccardo Montolivo kemungkinan besar akan masuk dalam skuadnya. Meski demikian, gelandang berusia 23 tahun itu akan absen dalam pertandingan lawan Austria tersebut karena harus memperkuat Italia di Olimpiade Beijing.

[ryan_wijaya]

Tugas Perdana Lippi Hadapi Austria



http://bola.okezone.com/images-data/content/2008/08/06/51/134295/DTbKtfQzYO.jpg


CORVECIANO - Marcello Lippi untuk kedua kalinya akan menangani Tim nasional Italia. Lippi akan menjalani laga perdananya bersama Azzurri dengan menghadapi Austria, pada 20 Agustus mendatang. Lippi memutuskan untuk kembali menangani Timnas Italia, setelah Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) memecat Roberto Donadoni usai Azzurri tumbang di babak perempat final Euro 2008 dari Spanyol yang tampil sebagai kampiun.
Seperti diberitakan Channel4, Rabu (6/8/2008), Lippi akan memulai latihan perdana di Converciano, pada Sabtu (16/8/2008) mendatang.
Setelah itu, Timnas Italia akan berkumpul di Tuscany pada Senin (18/8/2008) mendatang, sebelum terbang ke Prancis guna menjalani latihan lagi di Kota Nice.
Sedangkan lawan perdana mantan arsitek Juventus Inter Milan itu adalah dengan menghadapi Austria, pada Rabu (20/8/2008) pukul 19.50 waktu UK.
Namun dalam laga itu, Lippi tidak bisa memanggil beberapa nama yang sedang naik daun seperti Riccardo Montolivo. Gelandang Fiorentina sedang membela skuad muda Italia di ajang Olimpiade Beijing.


CORVECIANO - Marcello Lippi untuk kedua kalinya akan menangani Tim nasional Italia. Lippi akan menjalani laga perdananya bersama Azzurri dengan menghadapi Austria, pada 20 Agustus mendatang. Lippi memutuskan untuk kembali menangani Timnas Italia, setelah Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) memecat Roberto Donadoni usai Azzurri tumbang di babak perempat final Euro 2008 dari Spanyol yang tampil sebagai kampiun.
Seperti diberitakan Channel4, Rabu (6/8/2008), Lippi akan memulai latihan perdana di Converciano, pada Sabtu (16/8/2008) mendatang.
Setelah itu, Timnas Italia akan berkumpul di Tuscany pada Senin (18/8/2008) mendatang, sebelum terbang ke Prancis guna menjalani latihan lagi di Kota Nice.
Sedangkan lawan perdana mantan arsitek Juventus Inter Milan itu adalah dengan menghadapi Austria, pada Rabu (20/8/2008) pukul 19.50 waktu UK.
Namun dalam laga itu, Lippi tidak bisa memanggil beberapa nama yang sedang naik daun seperti Riccardo Montolivo. Gelandang Fiorentina sedang membela skuad muda Italia di ajang Olimpiade Beijing

[bocah_kere]

Cetak Gol, Giovinco Senang


http://sports.okezone.com/images-data/content/2008/08/08/254/134861/CPxQbqralM.jpg
foto: AP





BEIJING - Playmaker Italia Sebastian Giovinco sukses mengantarkan Italia menekuk Honduras 3-0 di laga perdana grup D. Playmaker mungil ini juga sangat senang bisa mencetak gol di ajang Olimpiade.

Ya, dalam laga tersebut, Giovinco sukses membuka keunggulan Italia pada menit ke-41, lewat tedangan jarak jauh spektakuler. Sedangkan dua gol lainnya disumbangkan Giuseppe Rossi (44') melalui titik penalti dan striker muda Robert Acquafresca di menit ke-52.

"Bisa mencetak gol di ajang Olimpiade tak datang setiap hari, terutama seperti satu gol yang berhasil saya buat. Saya harus banyak belajar bagaimana cara menendang dengan baik," papar Giovinco seperti dikutip Goal, Jumat (8/8/2008).

"Dan saya harus bekerja keras dalam hal itu. Sebab, saya memiliki kekurangan dalam hal menendang tepat ke sasaran," tambahnya.

"Udara di sini sangat panas, dan kami selalu kesulitan jika bermain dalam cuaca seperti ini," pungkas playmaker Juventus itu.

Dengan kemenangan ini, Italia berhak memimpin klasemen dengan tiga poin. Di laga selanjutnya yang akan digelar Minggu, Giovinco dkk bakal meladeni perlawanan Korea yang sebelumnya bermain imbang Kamerun.

[zlatan_wijaya]

wah kayaknya nih udah ada penerus zidane di juventus

[AlanAja]

Amauri ga jadi neh maen untuk Italia :D.. Forza Milan !!!!

[bocah_kere]

Donadoni Masih Merasa Sakit Hati (http://www.kabarbola.com/?page=berita&sub=detail&id=64)

http://www.kabarbola.com/data/berita/64


Pentas Euro 2008 sudah usai lebih dari sebulan lalu, dengan menghasilkan Timnas Spanyol sebagai juara. Pada perhelatan tersebut, Timnas Italia di bawah asuhan pelatih Roberto Donadoni gugur di babak perempat final saat menghadapi sang juara, Spanyol. Buntut kegagalan tersebut, Donadoni pun dipecat untuk kemudian digantikan oleh Marcello Lippi.

Semua seperti berjalan seperti sewajarnya. Namun, hari (13/08) ini, Donadoni mengungkapkan bahwa dirinya masih sakit hati dengan keputusan Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) yang memecatnya. Dalam pandangan Donadoni, keputusan tersebut dinilai tidak adil dan berlebihan.

“Situasi (pemecatan) tersebut sedikit terlalu berlebihan. Saya tidak tahu apakah setiap orang telah berlaku adil, yang kutahu diriku dapat menatap langsung ke wajah tiap orang tanpa masalah,” ujar Donadoni seperti dilansir Channel4. ia meneruskan: “Jika terdapat beberapa orang yang tidak berani menatap langsung ke mata saya, mereka melakukannya karena merasa bersalah.”

Rumor mengenai pemecatan Donadoni memang sudah ramai di media massa bahkan sebelum perhelatan Euro dimulai. Saat itu, masalah yang ramai diperbincangkan adalah seputar polemik perpanjangan kontrak sang pelatih. Selain itu, sudah menjadi rahasia umum di Italia kalau Marcello Lippi akan kembali mengambil tampuk kepelatihan dari tangannya.

“Mungkin semua berjalan sangat cepat, dan sejujurnya saya mengharap perubahan kecil dengan cara saya menangani tim. Fakta bahwa saya tidak pernah berkompromi kemungkinan tidak membantuku keluar dari situasi seperti itu,” jujur Donadoni.

Saat menandatangani kontrak barunya untuk Timnas Italia, Donadoni sempat menolak klausul khusus yang mengharuskan FIGC memberinya dana kompensasi. Ternyata bagi mantan pelatih Livorno ini, kesempatan berkontribusi untuk Gli Azzurri lebih berarti daripada materi. “Tidak setuju dengan fee kompensasi bukanlah masalah, sebab bagiku dapat ambil bagian untuk Nazionale (timnas) adalah impian yang menjadi nyata dan sesuatu yang lebih berarti daripada uang,” tuturnya.

Donadoni kemudian menuturkan bahwa pemecatan tersebut sama sekali tidak membuatnya emoh melatih lagi. “Beberapa hal tentang pemecatanku memang masih belum jelas, namun itu tidak membuatku kehilangan cinta pada (tugas) manajemen,” tandas mantan bintang AC Milan ini.

[bocah_kere]

Marchisio "Juga" Cedera

http://www.kabarbola.com/data/berita/62


Kekuatan Timnas Italia yang kini bertarung di Olimpiade Beijing makin berkurang. Setelah sebelumnya Tommaso Rocchi yang disambangi hantu cedera, kini giliran Claudio Marchisio yang harus pulang lebih awal. Gelandang muda Juventus ini terpaksa meninggalkan rekan-rekannya karena dibekap cedera betis.

Bagi Pierluigi Casiraghi, kehilangan Marchisio tentu bagai sambaran petir kedua. Sebab belum 24 jam berlalu, sejak ia harus menerima kenyataan kalau cedera yang diderita Tommaso Rocchi ternyata lebih parah dari yang diperkirakan sebelumnya. Hal ini sekaligus memicu kekesalan Presiden Lazio-klub yang dibela Rocchi, Claudio Lotito, terhadap kinerja tim medis Italia.

Dalam dua pertandingan penyisihan grup yang dilakoni Azzurrini, Marchisio baru satu kali turun bertanding. Saat Italia memenangkan pertandingan 3-0 kontra Honduras, ia masuk ke lapangan di menit ke-79 untuk menggantikan Sebastian Giovinco. Sedangkan saat Italia menang 3-0 melawan republik Korea, Marchisio sekali tidak dimainkan.

Untuk menggantikan Marchisio, Casiraghi telah menyiapkan Antonio Candreva. Candreva sendiri musim ini akan turun membela Livorno dengan status pemain pinjaman dari Udinese. Saat ini, ia telah bergabung dengan rekan-rekannya untuk latihan persiapan partai terakhir kontra Kamerun. Sebelumnya, pemain 21 tahun ini menampilkan permainan menawan kala Italia menjuarai Toulon Tournament Mei silam.

Untuk partai terakhir menghadapi Kamerun tersebut, diperkirakan Italia akan menampilkan permainan terbaiknya demi meraih posisi juara Grup D. Dengan menjadi juara grup, mereka akan terhindar dari pertemuan melawan Brasil di babak perempat final. Anak-anak asuh Casiraghi tersebut akan berjumpa tim yang di atas kertas lebih ringan daripada Brasil, Belgia.

[Ethuang]

Kejutan dari Lippi


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MILAN- Kejutan dilakukan Marcello Lippi. Pelatih timnas Italia itu ternyata tidak membawa Antonio Cassano pada laga persahabatan melawan Austria, Rabu (20/8/2008) mendatang.

Lippi yang menjadi pahlawan Azzurri di Piala Dunia 2006 lalu itu memang akan menggelar debut pertamanya setelah mundur dua tahun silam. Pelatih yang menggantikan Roberto Donadoni pada Juni lalu itu diharapkan mampu mengulangi kejayaan Italia di Piala Dunia Afrika Selatan pada 2010 nanti.

Selain Cassano, Lippi juga tidak menyertakan Christian Panucci dalam laga persahabatan itu. Seperti yang dilansir AP, Minggu (17/8/2008), sebagai pengganti Cassano, Lippi telah mempersiapkan striker Fiorentina Alberto Gilardino. Hal itu tentu sangat mengejutkan. Pasalnya, Gilardino sendiri gagal menunjukkan kelasnya saat dibawah asuhan Donadoni.

Bahkan musim lalu, Gilardino juga gagal mendongkrak AC Milan. Hal kontras tentu terjadi pada Cassano. Setelah gagal bersinar di Real Madrid, permainan Cassano menunjukkan grafik meningkat bersama Sampdoria.

Kejutan lainnya dari Lippi yakni dipanggilnya gelandanga El Samp, Angelo Palombo. Di jantung pertahanan, Lippi juga memanggil bek Liverpool Andrea Dossena yang dianggap beberapa pihak miskin pengalaman. Tak hanya itu, bek Roma Marko Cassetti juga secara mengejutkan masuk dalam skuad sementara Lippi.

Absennya Luca Toni dan Marco Materazzi yang mengalami cedera membuat posisinya digantikan Vincenzo Iaquinta dan Daniele Bonera. Sedangkan bintang belia Azzurri, Mario Balotelli (Inter Milan-red) juga harus bersabar setelah tidak dibawa serta oleh Lippi.

Skuad Sementara Italia:

Kiper: Marco Amelia, Gianluigi Buffon.

Bek: Andrea Barzagli, Daniele Bonera, Marco Cassetti, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Dossena, Fabio Grosso, Gianluca Zambrotta.

Gelandang: Alberto Aquilani, Mauro Camoranesi, Daniele De Rossi, Gennaro Gattuso, Angelo Palombo, Simone Perrotta, Andrea Pirlo.

Striker: Alessandro Del Piero, Antonio Di Natale, Alberto Gilardino, Vincenzo Iaquinta.


okezone

[Ethuang]

Kembali ke Timnas, Gilardino Puas


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FIRENZE - Striker Fiorentina Alberto Gilardino mengaku puas bisa kembali masuk Timnas Italia untuk berhadapan dengan Austria di laga persahabatan, Rabu (20/8/2008). Kebahagiaan Gila tak lepas dari keputusan pelatih baru Azzurri Marcello Lippi.

Sejak kursi kepelatihan Timnas Italia diambil-alih Roberto Donadoni, Gila memang tidak lagi mengisi skuad Azzurri. Mantan bomber AC Milan itu juga tak ikut serta ketika Italia berlaga di Euro 2008, Juni lalu.

Kini, setelah Lippi kembali duduk di kursi kepelatihan Italia menggantikan Donadoni, Gilardino pun kembali mendapat kepercayaan mengisi lini depan Azzurri.

"Ini merupakan hal yang sangat emosional bagi saya. Sebab ini (panggilan dari Timnas-red) merupakan hal yang saya tunggu-tunggu sejak bergabung dengan Fiorentina," papar Gila sebagaimana disitat AP, Minggu (17/8/2008).

"Mengetahui saya kembali mendapatkan panggilan Timnas di bawah arahan Marcello Lippi merupakan hal yang sangat penting bagi saya," tambahnya.

"Kenangan terakhir yang saya ingat dari Timnas adalah menjadi juara di ajang Piala Dunia 2006 di Jerman. Hingga kini, kenangan itu masih segar diingatan saya. Saya sangat senang Lippi kembali mempercayai saya untuk mengisi skuad Italia," lanjut mantan bomber FC Parma itu.


okezone

[Ethuang]

Lippi dan Marwijk Percaya Veteran



VICENTE Del Bosque bukan satu-satunya pelatih yang bakal menjalani debut di laga uji coba pertengahan pekan ini. Ada sejumlah pelatih dari timnas negara Eropa lainnya yang memulai job baru. Dimulai Marcello Lippi bersama Italia, Carlos Queiroz dengan Portugal, hingga Bert Van Marwijk yang menukangi Belanda (lihat grafis).

Khusus Lippi, dia berstatus pelatih baru, muka lama. Sebelum menggantikan Roberto Donadoni setelah Euro 2008, Lippi adalah arsitek Gli Azzurri, sebutan Timnas Italia, yang menjuarai Piala Dunia 2006 di Jerman. Tantangan Lippi di petualangan keduanya bersama Azzurridimulai saat melawat ke Austria pada Kamis besok (20/8).

Jika Del Bosque memanggil beberapa pemain baru, Lippi justru lebih percaya kepada para pemain veteran. Dia sebenarnya berencana memanggil kembali Francesco Totti, tapi bintang penyerang AS Roma itu terkendala cedera. Di lini depan, Lippi kembali memanggil Alberto Gilardino dan Vicenzo Iaquinta. Dua penyerang tersebut absen di Euro 2008, tapi menjadi anak asuh Lippi di Piala Dunia 2006.

"Bahagia rasanya bisa kembali mengenakan kostum timnas," kata Gilardino yang musim ini pindah dari AC Milan ke Fiorentina di situs resmi FIGC (Federasi Sepak Bola Italia).

Dengan performa menurun Luca Toni (yang tidak dipanggil di uji coba lawan Austria), Gilardino berpeluang menjadi penyerang utama Azzurridi kualifikasi Piala Dunia 2010. Sementara itu, di sektor belakang, bek kiri Juventus Giorgio Chiellini yang mengalami cedera di Trofeo Berlusconi dini hari kemarin WIB telah digantikan rekan setimnya, Nicola Legrottaglie.

Seperti halnya Lippi, Marwijk kembali memanggil pemain senior Mark van Bommel dalam skuad Belanda yang akan beruji coba lawan Rusia di Moskow Kamis besok. Bommel yang musim ini dipercaya sebagai kapten tim Bayern Munchen lebih banyak absen dari skuad Oranje semasa kepelatihan Marco van Basten.

Namun, seiring masuknya Marwijk sebagai pelatih baru, Bommel dilirik kembali. "Saya memilih pemain terbaik dan di mata saya Bommel adalah salah satunya. Saya tidak perlu berpikir panjang untuk memanggilnya dalam skuad," ujar Marwijk kepada AFP.

Sayang, lawatan Belanda ke Moskow itu hanya bisa diikuti 17 pemain setelah Khalid Boulahrouz (VfB Stuttgart) dan Orlando Engelaar (Schalke 04) mengalami cedera di laga pembuka Bundesliga akhir pekan lalu. Sebelumnya, Wesley Sneijder telah lebih dulu absen, sedangkan Edwin van der Sar dan Ruud van Nistelrooy telah resmi mundur dari timnas.


jawapos

[Ethuang]

Lippi Pakai Tridente


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ROMA - Marcello Lippi akan memasang tiga penyerang sekaligus. Alberto Gilardino, Toto Di Natale, dan Alessandro Del Piero, oleh Lippi akan diberi peran sebagai tridente Gli Azzurri saat menjalani pertandingan persahabatan menghadapi Austria.

Di Natale dan Del Piero akan dipasang Lippi sebagai penyuplai bola bagi Gilardino. Salah satu alasan mengapa Lippi berencana memakai tridente di lini depan Gli Azzurri, adalah absennya Mauro Camoranesi.

Di laga kontra Austria malam ini, Rabu (20/8/2008), Lippi tak ingin berjudi mempertaruhkan karir Camoranesi dengan memaksanya tampil. "Lebih baik tidak mengambil risiko memainkannya," ujar Lippi dilansir Sporting Life, Rabu (20/8/2008).

"Kami akan menghadapi mereka dengan gaya bermain agresif. Kemungkinan besar saya akan memasang tridente di depan," lanjutnya.

Terakhir kali kedua tim bertemu adalah di laga penyisihan grup Piala Dunia 1998 di Stade de France, Paris. Saat itu Italia menang dengan skor tipis 2-1 melalui gol Christian Vieri legenda Italia Roberto Baggio.


okezone

[bandeldeh]

Nocerino replaces Gattuso in Italy squad

ROME (AFP) - Italy coach Marcello Lippi on Monday called up midfielder Antonio Nocerino in place of injured Gennaro Gattuso for the 2010 World Cup qualifier against Georgia midweek.
It will be the first call up to the A squad for Palermo's Nocerino, 23. Gattuso injured his left wrist during training Sunday and will be sidelined for at least a month.
Injured defenders Alessandro Gamberini and Fabio Grosso will not, however, be replaced for Wednesday's game in Udine. The duo picked up their injuries during Saturday's 2-1 win over Cyprus.
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Gianluca Curci (Sienne), Morgan De Sanctis (Galatasaray/TUR)
Defenders: Andrea Barzagli (Wolfsburg/GER), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid/ESP), Marco Cassetti (AS Rome), Andrea Dossena (Liverpool/ENG), Nicola Legrottaglie (Juventus), Gianluca Zambrotta (AC Milan)

Midfielders: Alberto Aquilani (AS Rome), Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus), Daniele De Rossi (AS Rome), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Antonio Nocerino (Palerme), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)
Strikers: Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Alberto Gilardino (Fiorentina), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus), Luca Toni (Bayern/GER)

[jeemack]

Kualifikasi Piala Dunia 2010 Zona Eropa

De Rossi Bawa Azzurri ke Puncak Klasemen

Kamis, 11/9/2008 | 04:22 WIB

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Daniele De Rossi (kiri), mendapat sambutan dari rekan-rekannya setelah dia mencetak gol pertama ke gawang Georgia.

UDINESE, KAMIS - Daniele De Rossi membawa Italia ke puncak klasemen sementara Grup 8 kualifikasi Piala Dunia 2010 zona Eropa. Gelandang AS Roma tersebut memborong gol kemenangan Italia saat menaklukkan Georgia 2-0, Kamis (11/9) dini hari WIB, di Stadion Friuli.


Dengan donasi tiga angka dari lagai ini, Azzurri sudah mengumpulkan total enam angka sehingga berhak berada di posisi teratas. Pasalnya, pada saat bersamaan Republik Irlandia yang menjadi rival terdekatnya, hanya bisa menambah satu poin menyusul hasil imbang tanpa gol melawan Montenegro.
Sedangkan bagi Georgia, kekalahan tersebut semakin menenggelamkan mereka ke dasar klasemen. Karena pada laga perdananya akhir pekan lalu, Kakha Kaladze dan kawan-kawan menyerah 1-2 dari Republik Irlandia.


Menghadapi laga ini, Italia yang akhir pekan lalu harus bekerja ekstra keras sebelum menaklukkan tuan rumah Siprus dengan skor 2-1, tak diperkuat tiga pemain pilar. Dua pemain belakang, Alessandro Gamberini dan Fabio Grosso, serta gelandang Gennaro Gattuso harus istirahat karena sedang dibekap cedera.


Meskipun demikian, pelatih Marcello Lippi tampaknya tetap tenang. Pria berambut putih yang dua tahun lalu membawa Italia menjadi juara Piala Dunia 2006 tersebut sangat yakin dengan kekuatan pasukannya, apalagi lawan yang dihadapi memiliki level di bawahnya.


Benar saja, dalam pertandingan tersebut Italia mendominasi. Tetapi, Andrea Pirlo dkk tetap kesulitan untuk mencari celah mencetak gol.


Namun kebuntuan itu terpecahkan pada menit ke-17, ketika De Rossi melepaskan tembakan keras dari luar kotak penalti. Bola eksekusi gelandang Roma itu sempat membentur mistar gawang, namun memantul ke dalam sehingga penjaga gawang Georgia, Loria, tak bisa berbuat apa-apa.


Terciptanya gol itu semakin membangkitkan semangat para pemain Italia. Sayang, performa para pemain depan tim biru itu tak terlalu bagus sehingga sampai dengan babak pertama usai, skor tetap 1-0.


Di babak kedua, Georgia berusaha bangkit. Namun keinginan mereka untuk mencetak gol balasan tak pernah terwujud karena kesulitan menembus tembok pertahanan tuan rumah yang dibangun sangat kokoh oleh Fabio Cannavaro dkk.


Sebaliknya, Italia juga tak kunjung meraih gol tambahan lagi. Luca Toni yang penampilannya belum membaik terpaksa ditarik keluar pada menit ke-70 dan digantikan oleh Vincenzo Iaquinta. Meskipun demikian, gol tambahan urung juga tercipta.


Akhirnya, De Rossi lagi-lagi menjadi penghapus dahaga publik tuan rumah. Menjelang pertandingan usai, dia melakukan penetrasi ke dalam daerah pertahanan lawan, dan tanpa ragu melesakkan bola dengan kaki kanannya, sehingga si kulit bundar bersarang di pojok kiri bawah gawang Georgia. Skor akhir pun menjadi 2-0. (CH4/LOU)


Susunan pemain


Italia: Buffon; Zambrotta, Cannavaro, Legrottaglie, Dossena; Pirlo (Palombo 46), De Rossi, Aquilani; Camoranesi, Toni (Iaquinta 70), Di Natale (Del Piero 56)

Georgia: Loria; Lobjanidze, Salukvadze, Kaladze, Eliava (Kvaskvhvadze 46); Kenia, Khmaladze, Kobiashvili, Menteshashvili (Odikadze 68); Iashvili, Mchelidze (Siradze 54)

[londogosong]

tim yang kompak n punya mental juara... regenerasi dunk biar tetap juara... del piero saatnya pensiun.. ganti yang muda aja..

[zlatan_wijaya]

ayo italy maju trerus rebut lagi world cup

[jeemack]

13/09/2008 16:32

Ambrosini Disappointed By Lippi


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Milan midfielder Massimo Ambrosini is disappointed by the fact that returning Italy coach Marcello Lippi has not picked him for the Azzurri...

The tough Milan midfielder vice captain is disappointed with the way certain things are going at the moment. Milan are not getting into the swing of things and bad resultsrecently have put the team under pressure.

However, the Milan midfielder is sticking by his under fire coach Carlo Ancelotti. The boss has absorbed much of the criticism dished out to the Rossoneri in recent weeks. Reports suggest that the coach’s job is on the line, but Ambro has stated, “We are all on our coach's side.”

The hardworking midfielder is disappointed with another coach, though. The national team's ‘mister’ has not picked him since returning to the Azzurri hotseat. Ambrosini admits that he is in great form at the moment, yet the call from Lippi has not arrived.

“He chose to rely on other players and I was disappointed,” said the blonde battler.

“The decisions of coaches don’t necessarily require agreement, though. They need to be respected,” concluded Ambrosini.

Peter Pedroncelli

[jeemack]

15/09/2008 17:47

Amauri: Italy? I Would Run To Play For Them

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Juventus striker Amauri has expressed his determination to play for Italy, and says that he would go there running if called up by national team coach Marcello Lippi

The 28-year-old Amauri is widely regarded as one of Serie A's top strikers, and he showed his pedigree last night by scoring the winner for Juventus in their 1-0 victory over Udinese in Turin.

The ex-Chievo frontman is due to receive an Italian passport very shortly, and as he has never represented Brazil, he will be eligible to play for the Azzurri.

Critics are split over whether Amauri deserves to wear the Italy shirt, but late last week Lippi appeared to suggest that he will call the striker once he gets his passport.

"I have spoken to Amauri,” the tactician told Sky Sports 24.

“He is a very strong player, and I am waiting for him to become Italian.”

Amauri now appears to be desperate to represent his soon-to-be adopted country, stating: “If Lippi were to call me I would go there running.”

Amauri has been in Italy since 2000, also wearing the club shirts of Napoli, Piacenza, Messina, Chievo and Palermo.

Anthony Sormani

[jeemack]

20/09/2008 12:31

Totti And Nesta Are Welcome To Return - Lippi

Italy coach Marcello Lippi has left the Nazionale door open for Roma captain and legend Francesco Totti and Milan stopper Alessandro Nesta.

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The Giallorosso decided to hang up his international boots in 2006 after he helped Italy lift their fourth World Cup trophy.

Totti has always said that he wouldn’t return to the national set up but Lippi has dropped a massive hint to his former player and it seems as if the coach wants him back as he leaves the door open.

“Totti and Nesta decided to leave voluntarily and I have respect for their decisions because they gave Italy so much playing for La Nazionale,” Lippi told FIFA magazine.

“However the door will always be open for them. I expect determination and enthusiasm from my players, that’s the only way we can defend our 2006 title.

“I think Italy is on the same level as Germany, Brazil and Argentina in terms of football and we are condemned to win.

“Thankfully we have [Gianluigi] Buffon and he is the best goalkeeper in the World.”

Italy have started their World Cup defence in positive fashion after picking up two wins from their games against Cyprus and Georgia in their group 8 South Africa 2010 qualifying group.

Nesta is unlikely to return to the Azzurri as he is out with a long term injury while it would be a massive U-turn for Er Pupone given his resistance to go back.

Salvatore Landolina

[jeemack]

29/09/2008 17:24

Miccoli Wants The Azzurri

Palermo striker Fabrizio Miccoli has expressed his desire to play for the national team, hinting that Marcello Lippi should pick him for the Azzurri...

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Miccoli has been on fire for the Rosaneri so far this season, with his four goals filling him with the kind of confidence that makes him long for the national team again.

The player has played at international level in the past under Marcello Lippi, but has not been a part of the team since his form dipped and injuries got the better of him, thus hampering his progress.

Speaking about a possible call-up to the national team for Italy's pair of World Cup qualifiers in a couple of weeks time, Miccoli said, “[Lippi] knows me. It would be great to play for the Azzurri, but if the call-up does not arrive I will not lose confidence.”

The national team is an objective of the diminutive striker, but he knows what is most important at the moment: his club Palermo.

Reflecting on the 1-0 win over Reggina on Sunday, he continued: “Scoring is always a very special feeling, but the three points are fundamental - especially the ones earned against a team that is tight in defence.

“There were very few spaces at the back and it proved to be the most difficult win so far,” explained Miccoli

After Palermo's failure to progress in the Coppa Italia and the teams loss in the first fixture of the Serie A season against Udinese, Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini thought it necessary to remove Stefano Colantuono from his post and replace him with Davide Ballardini.

The new coach has since turned things around for the Rosaneri, who have done very well since his arrival.

Miccoli has now added his voice to the chorus of approval for the new coach, saying: “I thank him because he says that I am a champion and I needed somebody to tell me that and make me feel important.”

Peter Pedroncelli

[Interisti]

Buffon & Camoranesi Diragukan Tampil

Duo Juventus Gianluigi Buffon dan Mauro Camoranesi diragukan tampil membela Italia di babak kualifikasi PD 2010 menghadapi Bulgaria dan Montenegro. Keduanya dikabarkan mengalami cedera.

Buffon dikabarkan mengalami masalah pada punggungnya saat Juve dipermalukan Palermo Minggu lalu. Dalam pemeriksaan awal, dokter tim menyatakan bahwa cedera kambuhan yang dialami kiper nomor satu Italia itu tidak parah. Buffon diprediksi hanya membutuhkan waktu beberapa hari untuk memulihkan kondisinya.

Sementara Camoranesi juga berpotensi absen karena mengalami ketegangan pada otot paha kanannya. Dalam waktu dekat ini, keduanya dikabarkan akan menjalani pemeriksaan lebih lanjut guna mengetahui seberapa besar peluang keduanya tampil.

Di babak kualifikasi, Azzurri memulai prjuangannya dengan cukup baik. Luca Toni dkk sukses mengalahkan Cyprus (2-1) dan Georgia (2-0). Di dua laga kualifikasi ke depan, Italia akan menghadapi Bulgaria di Sofia, Minggu (19/10/2008) dan Montenegro di Lecce, empat hari berselang.

okezone

[jeemack]

Azzurri Muda Buat Lippi Puas

Minggu, 12 Oktober 2008


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Berita Bola: Sofia - Italia cuma meraih hasil imbang dari lawatannya ke Bulgaria. Meski demikian Marcello Lippi mengaku sangat puas, utamanya dengan Azzurri muda yang dia mainkan.

Memang masih ada pemain senior semisal Gianluca Zambrotta dan Fabio Cannavaro saat Italia bermain imbang 0-0 dengan Bulgaria dinihari tadi. Namun dalam skuad Italia muncul beberapa wajah baru seperti Simone Pepe dan Giuseppe Rossi yang menjalani debut di timnas senior sementara Riccardo Montolivo juga mendapat promosi dari tim U-21.

Tanpa Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo dan Mauro Camoranesi serta keputusan Lippi meninggalkan Alex Del Piero, Andrea Barzagli serta Antonio Cassano, rataan usia pemain dalam laga tersebut adalah 27 tahun. Keputusan yang berani mengingat Italia tak pernah menang jika bertanang ke Bulgaria.

"Saya melihat ada rapor yang bagus di antara pemain muda dan senior, jadi saya yakin kami masih akan melihat performa tim yang bagus. Ada pemain bagus di sana, beberapa sudah tua dan sebagian masih muda. Gianluca Zambrotta bermain bagus menghadapi pemain seperti Martin Petrov dan Andrea Dossena juga terus berkembang," ungkap Lippi seperti diberitakan Channel4.

Hasil ini juga melanjutkan catatan fantastis Lippi bersama timnas Italia di mana di sudah 29 pertandingan beruntun tak terkalahkan. Torehan tersebut hanya kalah satu angka dari rekor sepajang massa Italia atas nama Vittorio Pozzo.

"Hal yang paling positif adalah saya melihat penampilan yang meyakinkan dari beberapa debutan dan beberapa pemain yang baru sedikit membela timnas," lanjut Lippi.

Peremajaan di skuad Italia ini juga mendapat sambutan sangat positif dari Giuseppe Rossi. Gelandang AS Roma itu menilai Azzurri masih memiliki potensi sangat besar dan pastinya kondisi tersebut bisa membuat publik Italia merasa optimis.

"Kami melihat perkembangan besar dalam beberapa pertandingan terakhir yang membuat kami optimis. Saya gembira dengan skuad ini, saya nyaman dengan tim ini. Rasanya seperti pekerjaan setiap hari saat bersama klub," sahut Rossi. (dtc/din/roz)

[jeemack]

13/10/2008 18:33

Zambrotta Pleased With Sofia Draw

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Italy wing-back Gianluca Zambrotta expressed his satisfaction for the point achieved by his national team during the game against Bulgaria on Saturday.

Zambrotta does not understand the criticism which the Azzurri received following their goalless draw in Bulgaria, as he believes that a point away from home is more than enough.

"Our objective is to win at home and draw away," explained the Milan player. "That is why the draw of Saturday evening against Bulgaria must be considered a good result."

However, Zambrotta was not very impressed with the performance of some Italian fans on the stands on Saturday.

"Banners and swastikas have nothing to do with football," he said. "We don't even see them from the pitch, because we are concentrated on the game.

"The real Italian fans are not those seen during the match against Bulgaria. Football gives different signs to these."

[jeemack]

15/10/2008 23:01

Aquilani & Italy Conquer Montenegro

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Alberto Aquilani scored both goals as Italy edged out Montenegro 2-1 in a enthralling World Cup qualifier, full of chances, at the Stadio Via Del Mare. Italy 2-1 Montenegro

Team News

Italy had obtained a highly respectable 0-0 draw in Bulgaria on Saturday night, and were now looking to complete a good few days work with victory at the Via Del Mare. Luca Toni returned to his club side Bayern Munich due to his suspension, and was replaced in the squad by Fabio Quagliarella. However, coach Marcello Lippi made only one change from the team who took to the pitch in Sofia, with Alberto Aquilani coming in for Riccardo Montolivo. Rino Gattuso and Daniele De Rossi both passed fitness tests to play.

Montenegro may have a population of under 700,00, and a FIFA ranking of 117, but they certainly were not a team to be treated lightly. Serie A stars Stevan Jovetic and Mirko Vucinic led the forward line, supported by the dangerous Simon Vukcevic and Branko Boskovic.

First Half

Italy had a strong start, and had two fine chances within the first 90 seconds. First of all the ball broke to Andrea Dossena in the penalty area, and he lashed the ball wide from a promising position. Then Gattuso struck a low shot from 20 yards that finished not too far wide of Vukasin Poleksic' post.

On six minutes Italy were desperately close to taking the lead following a mass scramble in the box from a free kick that led to Poleksic saving on the line from Simone Pepe.

The goal was inevitable and it arrived just seconds later, as Milan Jovanovic made a comical error down the left, and Pepe latched onto the ball, and crossed for Aquilani to slide in at the back post and score.

Italy then took their foot off the gas, and Montenegro had a fantastic chance to equalise on 15 minutes. Vukcevic's miss-hit shot found Elsad Zverotic all alone at the back post, but his left footed finish was cleared off the line by Gianluca Zambrotta. From the following corner, Boskovic headed over from just two yards, with the goal gaping.

Montenegro were now looking really dangerous, and moments later they found the equaliser. Vucinic was the man responsible for the damage, as he took on Giorgio Chiellini in a one-on-one situation, and then buried his finish past Marco Amelia.

Italy tried to react. De Rossi lashed well wide, while Chiellini tested Poleksic from 25 yards. Di Natale cut in from the left and stung Poleksic's palms, with Aquilani also testing the goalkeeper from the follow-up.

The Azzurri were starting to regain their dominance from early on, and they went back into the lead on 28 minutes, with Aquilani again the hero. The ball broke to the Roma man at the back post, and his half volley deflected off Jovan Tanasijevic and past a helpless Poleksic.

Italy were keen not to make the same mistake of sitting back on their lead, and they continued to come forward. De Rossi charged upfield, and sliced the ball wide, while Aquilani fizzed a wicked ball across the box. Down the other end, Vucinic tried his luck with an ambitious long-range free kick, but it was easy for Amelia. The Roma hitman brought out a more difficult save from a similar distance minutes later.

Di Natale had the ball in the back of the net again on 37 minutes after latching onto Aquilani's free kick, but he was clearly offside and the goal was chalked off.

Italy played out the remainder of the half without taking too many risks, although there was still time for Boskovic to see his left foot shot deflected wide.

Second Half

Italy again reacted to the referee's whistle fastest, as Zambrotta charged past the helpless Jovanovic, and his angled shot was smartly pushed away by Poleksic.

On 50 minutes Italy should have added a third as Gilardino missed a glorious opportunity. Aquilani threaded the Fiorentina man clean through on goal, but his finish was weak, and Poleksic saved low to his left.

This miss could have proved costly just moments later as an error by De Rossi gifted the ball to Vucinic but Amelia denied the forward with a fine save in another one-on-one situation. Amelia came to the rescue once again from the resulting corner, with a brilliant fingertip save from Jovetic's stinging half volley.

Gilardino had had a miserable evening thus far, but he tried to work himself a chance, and saw his shot deflected over. Pepe then whipped the ball over the bar from 25 yards.

Italy made the first change of the game on 59 minutes as Daniele Bonera replaced Dossena, and immediately switched flanks with Zambrotta. Montenegro continued to believe in finding a second equaliser, and Vukcevic lashed the ball wide from long range.

However, on 63 minutes Italy missed a gilt-edged chance to open up a two-goal cushion as De Rossi was all alone from close range on Aquilani's perfect cross, but he headed onto the post. This was Aquilani's last contribution of the evening, as he was then substituted for Roma colleague Simone Perrotta.

Perrotta immediately lined up in the Italian wall, and watched on as Vucinic curled a delightful free kick just inches past the post, with Amelia a statue. Jovetic also threatened as he hit a daisycutter just off target.

Lippi made his final change of the night on 75 minutes as the quiet Di Natale was replaced with his Udinese team-mate Quagliarella.

De Rossi tried to fire up a tiring Italy side, and he let fly with a rocket from 30 yards that was punched away by Poleksic. Down the other end Zverotic lashed the ball high and wide.

De Rossi brought out another save from Poleksic with a free kick on the edge of the area, while Drincic's shot trickled through to Amelia. There was a nice moment in injury time when Vucinic, who has been excellent all night, was substituted to a standing ovation.

Italy held on for a narrow 2-1 win, and remain top of Group 8 with 10 points from their first four games.

Teams

Italy: Amelia; Zambrotta, Cannavaro, Chiellini, Dossena (Bonera 59); Gattuso, De Rossi, Aquilani (Perrotta 64); Di Natale (Quagliarella 75), Gilardino, Pepe

Montenegro: Poleksic; Pavicevic, Batak, Tanasijevic, Jovanovic; Drincic, Zverotic (Novakovic 89), Boskovic (Bozovic 81), Vukcevic; Jovetic, Vucinic (Damjanovic 90)

Goals

Aquilani 8 (I)

Vucinic 19 (M)

Aquilani 28 (I)

[jeemack]

17/10/2008 14:19

Zambrotta Pleased With Azzurri Performance

Milan and Italy wing-back Gianluca Zambrotta is proud of Italy's performance in against Montenegro on Wednesday night.

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The Milan defender played the full 90 minutes as the Azzurri saw off Montenegro 2-1 in Lecce after a 0-0 draw in Bulgaria last weekend. The former Barcelona man was one of the most impressive players on the pitch, working hard for the entire match and causing problems up front for his opponents.

The Montenegro game was his 80th cap for the Azzurri, and he now finds himself 10th in the all-time appearance list for the national side.

“We played better against Montenegro than we did against Bulgaria from an offensive point of view,” said Zambrotta to Sky Sport 24, adding, “We created more, perhaps as a result giving away a little more at the back, which is inevitable. I think we had lots of chances, but the main thing is that we got the three points and we are top because you can't always play spectacular football.

Marcello Lippi called up four new players for the two World Cup 2010 qualifiers and Zambrotta commented on their affect on the team.

“The coach is weighing up several new and young players. With players like Simone Pepe, Riccardo Montolivo, Giuseppe Rossi, Christian Maggio and Fabiano Santacroce determined to prove themselves, the Azzurri side can only benefit. The young players have shown great character to play without fear and they have found themselves in such a close-knit group.”

In conclusion the defender spoke of the family atmosphere in the camp, forming a group of players that interact well and grow together as a team. “We all get on well and laugh and joke together and that unity is an important strength,” said Zambrotta.

Peter Pedroncelli

[jeemack]

Group 8 Standing - 20 October 2008


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[jeemack]

11/10/2008 03:50

Miccoli Wants Azzurri

After a fine start to the campaign, the Palermo striker was left slightly disappointed by Marcelo Lippi’s choice not to select him in his squad for the two upcoming World Cup qualifiers.


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Fabrizio Miccoli and his Palermo side have been in tremendous form in the early stages of the new campaign, winning four from their first six fixtures, going down only to Udinese and Napoli, both away from home.

The Rosanero are flying and one man they have to thank is Miccoli himself, who has been fundamental to their success. The small, powerful forward has scored five of his side’s ten goals so far in the campaign, including a stunning brace against Roma a few weeks ago.

Miccoli has made 10 appearances for the Italian national team since 2003 and felt that his current form would earn him a recall to the squad. It wasn’t to be however, and the attacking maestro will just have to maintain this form throughout the season and hope to earn a call-up in the future.

“I could have played in Lecce, my home town,” said a disappointed Miccoli.
“Maybe I was not called up due to my slight calf injury,” he added, as he attempts to shake off a slight strain in time for the Sicilian derby with Catania next weekend.

He went on to say that, “I have never begun a season so well before. Sure I have made my mark as a striker, but the most important thing is to be doing well for the team.”

He has made 36 appearances for Palermo since moving from Juventus and two loan spells at Fiorentina and Benfica. In this time he has scored on 16 occasions.

Adrian Del Monte

[jeemack]

03/11/2008 23:18

Lippi Not Considering Juve Duo For Now

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Italian national team coach Marcello Lippi has discussed the current situation of the national team regarding players, touching on Juventus pair Alessandro Del Piero and Amauri...

Marcello Lippi certainly has one of the most prestigious and difficult jobs in world football being the manager of the Italian national side. The World Cup winner spoke about the player situation for the national team and suggested turnover will be taking place.

"I want to observe a few new players, so I can discover some new talents," he said. "There will still be time for the established players, if they are still in good condition than they will be taken into account."

Alessandro Del Piero has recently been in good form for Juventus, but Lippi has ruled out an immediate return to the national team. "He is a player I will leave at home for a while now because he is a player you know everything about."

Amauri has been excluded by Brazil coach Carlos Dunga once again, but Lippi has stated he will only consider the Juventus striker once his passport situation has been cleared up: "I told him only when he is Italian can I take into account the possibility of calling him up, until then I cannot."

The former Juventus coach went on to briefly say that he does not believe Roma's Francesco Totti or AC Milan's Alessandro Nesta will put a hold on their international retirements.

Adam Scime

[hoka2_bento]

Biru Terang Azzurri di Piala Konfederasi

Sabtu, 29 November 2008 - 08:22 wib


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ITALIA - Timnas Italia dikabarkan siap membuat publik dunia terkejut di Piala Konfederasi, tahun depan. Gli Azzurri berencana mengganti imege warna kostumnya menjadi biru terang di ajang yang akan digelar Afrika Selatan itu.

Seperti diketahui, sejak dulu Italia memang memiliki tradisi kostum dengan warna biru gelap. Namun, kali ini skuad besutan Marcelo Lippi itu siap melakukan gebrakan dengan mengganti warna kostum menjadi biru terang. Sementara untuk celana, Italia juga telah menyiapkan wakna coklat sebagai padanan kaos berwarna biru terang itu.

Menurut pembertitaan AP, Sabtu (29/11/2008), FIFA kabarnya telah menerima peryataan teknis dari Federasi Sepakbola Italia (FIGC) mengenai kemungkinan Italia mengganti warna kostum yang kali ini didukung perusahaan olahraga ternama, Puma itu.

Warna kostum yang diajukan FIGC itu dipercaya banyak pihak berwarna biru terang seperti kostum Napoli. Atau bisa juga sama dengan kostum Timnas Uruguay, dengan celana berwarna coklat muda.

Perubahan warna kostum ini diprediksi bakal membuat fans Azzurri kecewa. Pasalnya, warna biru gelap sudah dianggap sebagai tradisi keramat, tim yang sukses menyabet empat gelar juara dunia serta satu trofi Euro tersebut dengan mengenakan kostum biru tua itu.

Di turnamen yang mempertemukan tim terbaik di tiap benua itu, Fabio Cannavaro dkk tergabung di grup B bersama Juara benua Amerika Utara, Amerika Serikat (USA), Juara Afrika Mesir, serta kampiun Amerika Selatan Brasil. Italia bakal melakoni laga perdana di turnamen yang hanya diikuti delapan tim itu pada 15 Juni 2009.

[zlatan_wijaya]

semoga aja bisa menjadi juara dunia lagi

go go go Lippi, Forza Juve ;))

[jeemack]

14/01/2009 16:58

Lippi: Juventus Have Been The Best Team In Serie A So Far

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La Nazionale's coach believes that the Bianconeri have eclipsed every other side in Serie A this season, despite lying in second position behind Inter.

Italy coach Marcello Lippi believes Juventus have been the best team of the Serie A season to date, stating that he has been impressed with his old side.

Lippi spent a total of 10 years as Juve coach where he won a number of major honours including the Champions League. The tactician still holds the Bianconeri close to his heart and he recently spoke of a return after his time with La Nazionale.

Lippi doesn't agree with the league table, which shows Inter at the summit, four points ahead of second placed Juve.

"I think Juventus have been without a doubt the best team so far," Lippi told ANSA.

"Juventus have had an impressive Serie A campaign and they finished as group winners in the Champions League.

"I think Inter will have to sweat for the Scudetto this year."

Lippi has a friendly game with Brazil to think about in February and the coach cannot wait to meet the Selecao.

"I am fascinated by this game as I have never played against Brazil in 40 years of football," concluded the coach.

Juventus clash with Lazio this weekend, when they could close the trim to Inter by three points.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

[jeemack]

15/01/2009 10:16

Carlo Ancelotti: I Want To Coach Italy Or Ivory Coast


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Carlo Ancelotti has his eyes set on international duty, but will it be Italy or the Ivory Coast...

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he would like to take the Italy job after his spell at San Siro. The coach has been at Milan since 2001 and, prior to that, had enjoyed spells with Juventus, Parma and Emilia-based side Reggiana.

There has been plenty of interest regarding Ancelotti and his future.
Recently he was linked with a return to Roma, where he played between 1979 and 1987, and he has even touted to become the next Manchester City manager in the British press..

However, the coach is unlikely to take charge at another club side as he has his eyes firmly set on international football.

"One day I would like to coach Italy," Ancelotti told Calcio 2000 magazine.

"Maybe it's because my career has taken a specific route; I coached Juve then Milan, so now it would be difficult to go and coach another team.

"At this point for me it would be the Italian national team."

The Italian national side could be an option, but the coach has a 'Plan B' lined-up if he fails to land the Azzurri job.

"A national team experience would be good and I have also spoken about coaching an African team," added the coach.

"There are plenty of great talents in Africa and it would be good to assemble many players in a squad in which the tactics are well defined.

"At the moment I would prefer to coach the Ivory Coast."

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

[jeemack]

19/01/2009 15:44

Gianluigi Buffon Number One In Goalkeeper Rankings


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Gianluigi Buffon has been chosen by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics as the best goalkeeper of the past two decades, ahead of Peter Schmeichel and Iker Casillas...

Juventus and Italy goalkeeper, Gianlugi Buffon, has been recognised as the best goalkeeper in the world by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics.

Buffon, who became the most expensive goalkeeper ever when he moved from Parma to Juventus, was top by nine points, over nearest rival Peter Schmeichel.

The rankings take into account players from 1990 onwards, and in the top eight there are four players still playing today.

Below Manchester United legend Schmeichel, comes Spain and Real Madrid number one, Iker Casillas.

Casillas, who was a major part of the Spanish victory at the European Championships in Austria and Switzerland, is one point above Oliver Kahn, whilst below the German in fifth is José Luis Chilavert.
IFFHS Best Goalkeepers In The World:

1. Gianluigi Buffon (ITA) 78 points
2. Peter Schmeichel (DEN) 69
3. Iker Casillas (SPN) 63
4. Oliver Kahn (GER) 62
5. José Luis Chilavert (PAR) 58
6. Walter Zenga (ITA) 55
7. Edwin van der Sar (HOL) 53
8. Petr Cech (CZE) 44
9. Michel Preud'homme (BEL) 43
10. Claudio André Taffarel (BRA) 40
11. David Seaman (ENG) 38
12. Fabien Barthez (FRA) 37
13. Andoni Zubizarreta (ESP) 35
14. Nélson de Jesus e Silva 'Dida' (BRA) 35
15. Rinat Dasaev (RUS) 27
16. Sergio Javier Goycochea (ARG) 26
17. Johannes van Breukelen (HOL) 23
18. Peter Shilton (ENG) 22
19. Vítor Baía (POR) 22

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com

[jeemack]

21/01/2009 13:48

No Italians In UEFA Team Of The Year For The First Time In Eight Seasons

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Italy will be scratching their heads as no Italian player made the UEFA team of 2008...

No Italian player was in UEFA's team of the year which was voted by fans of the European football's governing body's official website.

Perhaps the 3.3 million votes were conditioned from the Azzurri's woeful Euro 2008 campaign. Eventual winners Spain dominated the team with six of the XI players coming from La Seleccion. Barcelona are the club with most players with three Blaugrana stars in the line-up.

Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson was also voted as the best tactician.

Here is the winning formation (4-4-2): Iker Casillas (Spa, Real Madrid); Sergio Ramos (Spa, Real Madrid), John Terry (Eng, Chelsea), Carles Puyol (Spa, Barcellona), Philipp Lahm (Ger, Bayern Munich); Cristiano Ronaldo (Por, Manchester United), Xavi Hernandez (Spa, Barcellona), Cesc Fabregas (Spa, Arsenal), Franck Ribery (Fra, Bayern Munich); Lionel Messi (Arg, Barcellona), Fernando Torres (Spa, Liverpool).

Coach: Alex Ferguson (Eng, Manchester United).

The Primera Division and Premier League have dominated the team and, as a result, Serie A is looking less than perfect. Spain's dominance as well as Manchester United's incredible season have influenced the fans selections, leaving Italy red-faced.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com