World Cup 2006 Preview - Italy
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World Cup 2006 Preview: Italy
Overview
Italy, often the architects of their own high-stakes drama, have a storied history of heartache in major tournaments. Throughout the 1990s, they were knocked out of three World Cups on penalties, including Roberto Baggio's unforgettable miss against Brazil in the 1994 final.
European Challenges
Their European performances haven't been much smoother. During Euro 2000, Italy was on the brink of victory when France equalized in injury time and eventually clinched the win. Euro 2004 was another disappointment, with Italy exiting at the group stage due to a 2-2 draw between Sweden and Denmark, the only result capable of eliminating them.
Tournament Outlook
Italy seems poised to deliver their usual blend of high drama at the World Cup. Coach Marcelo Lippi has experimented extensively, using 36 players in qualifying, indicating uncertainty about his best XI. This lack of stability could hinder their success in Germany.
Historically, Italy starts slowly in major tournaments, which might be problematic in what could be the toughest group. An early qualifying loss to Slovenia suggests they could struggle in their opener against the unfamiliar Ghanaian team.
Despite this, Italy remained unbeaten after that initial setback, topping their qualifying group by five points. While they might secure a spot in the last 16, betting on them to win Group E at 10/11 seems unwise given their penchant for narrow progress.
Key Players and Strategy
Italy's strength lies in their solid defense, led by Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta, both pivotal in past World Cup campaigns.
In attack, Lippi faces tough choices. Veterans Alessandro Del Piero and Christian Vieri might lose their spots to AC Milan’s Alberto Gilardino and Fiorentina’s Luca Toni, who scored four goals in eight qualifiers. Real Madrid's Antonio Cassano is another potential key player.
Betting Recommendation
Given Italy's unpredictable lineup and history of doing just enough to advance, opposing them offers more value than backing them at odds-on to win or qualify from the group. Their final group match against the Czech Republic could end in a draw if a single point suffices for both teams to progress.
Bet Recommendation:
Italy vs Czech Republic draw @ 11/5
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