Yet, what may make some bristle is the possibility that the slow start was actually symptomatic of the team’s limitations rather than any traditional reticence. Lippi fielded a 4-3-2-1 system with Fiorentina’s Alberto Gilardino the lone striker in front of Simone Pepe and Vincenzo Iaquinta. In theory, the system was supposed to exploit the pace of wide players Pepe and Iaquinta, giving Riccardo Montolivio an opportunity to create from the middle. In practice, the system was only moderately successful.
Italy certainly pressed with purpose, but they were somewhat toothless in the final third. Indeed, even the equalizing goal by Daniele De Rossi came courtesy of a blunder by Paraguyan goalkeeper Justo Villar. Notwithstanding a spirted and well organized Paraguay side, Italy should have surmounted any challenge that the South Americans posed. Instead, they were made to chase the game after poor marking allowed Antolin Alcaraz to head home in the first half.
Lippi admitted that Italy would need to improve if they hope to make into the latter stages of the tournament. Certainly, Italy should make light work of New Zealand and Slovakia, but given that the likes of Switzerland, Serbia, and Mexico have all caused upsets, Italy will be cautiously optimistic.
Italy Team News:
Marcello Lippi has been experimenting with a very attacking 4-4-2 as Alberto Gilardino could start with Udinese’s Antonio Di Natale up front. Given Di Natale’s speed and ability to draw defenders, it would appear that Gilardino will be the more static striker. The one worry Lippi does have is Buffon’s back injury, which will keep him out of the tournament. Cagliari’s Federico Marchetti will deputize in his absence.
Italy probable (4-4-2): Marchetti; Criscito, Cannavaro, Chiellini, Zambrotta; Pepe, De Rossi, Montolivio, Marchisio; Gilardino, Di Natale
New Zealand Team News:
Winston Reid was the hero against Slovakia when he scored the late equalizer against Slovakia, and the central defender will be looking to repeat his heroics against Italy. The national mood in New Zealand is one of expectation. Their national team was supposed to just make up the numbers; instead they snatched a point off Slovakia. Rory Fallon, Shane Smeltz and Chris Killen should start up front.
New Zealand probable (3-4-3): Paston; Nelsen, Smith, Reid; Vicelich, Elliott, Lochead, Bertos; Fallon, Smeltz, Killen.
Prediction:
Despite Italy’s habit of starting slowly, they should glide past New Zealand. 2-0 Italy.
