Breaking Down Italy’s World Cup 2014 Group Stage Opponents

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: December 7, 2013

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Before a name had even been pulled out of the bowl at FIFA's glorified Bingo hall, manager Cesare Prandelli called the World Cup draw "ridiculous," in a Gazzetta dello Sport interview. It's a sentiment many others—inside the game and out—would echo. 

Italy are currently ranked seventh in the world, but thanks to a logic only understood by those in power at the sport's governing body, weren't top seeds. That's hard to justify, given that the Azzurri have been at the same ranking for almost three years now, finished third at the Confederations Cup, reached the European Championships and are the last side to win the title before Spain. 

 



Costa Rica 

No disrespect to Costa Rica, but Prandelli won't be too concerned about the CONCACAF qualifiers. 

Manchester United fans will be familiar with Everton's Bryan Oviedo, but the left-back is unlikely to be scoring any match-winning goals in Brazil. The Central Americans will be relying on Real Salt Lake's Alvaro Saborio for their goals—not least because only two other players on the current roster have managed to net double figures. 

Arsenal's young Joel Campbell—currently on loan at Olympiacos FC—could also pose some threat if he sustains his current impressive form. The 21-year-old has scored five times in 12 appearances so far for the Greeks. 

Costa Rica have beaten the USA and Mexico recently, but a major side like Italy should be able to overcome them without too much difficulty. In the 10 previous World Cup games they've played, they've won three, drawn one and lost six, conceding 21 goals in the process. Against the opposition in this group, that record doesn't stand much hope of improving next summer. 

 



England

Italy face their European rivals first at the World Cup in w...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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