Italy will be missing Cannavaro,he received his second yellow against Mexico. Other than that Italy have no one else out due to cards. This is a big blow for the Italian defence. More info coming up....
Italy @ South Korea 7:30 Am Est
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Some important factors in Korea's favor -
Home advantage - Daejeon will be rocking and there will be no running track separating the pitch from the fans. Don't forget that Italy has been playing in Japan until now, and they will have to adjust to new surroundings as they travel to Korea. Minor factor but not trivial. Italy will be facing a lot of pressure as well - they don't want to be pelted by tomatoes again when they return home.
Hiddink - Guus has done a tremendous job thus far, and Korea will be ready with a game plan to run Italy ragged for the full 90 minutes or more if necessary. Korea is pretty much at full strength, luckily having escaped major injuries in the first round.
Confidence - Korea's biggest weakness in the past was lack of confidence more than anything else, especially when playing the big name Europeans. Korea will try to exploit the Italy defense, which is missing its best defender Fabio Cannavaro.
Italy of course poses a lot of problems for Korea. Italy has a lot of weapons - Vieri will be tough to defend, Totti is a maestro in the Zidane/Figo mold. And the diving and whining to the referee is plain disgusting. Portugal, as much as I admire them, were the biggest whiners and floppers, and extremely dirty. I think Italy will be similar. I was surprised at how mentally weak the Portugese were, definitely were feeling pressure. Likewise Italy is expected to win, and they will be under tremendous pressure.
In the end, it will boil down to who makes the least mistakes. Luck is a huge factor in a knockout tournament. Luck = opportunity + preparation. Korea will be prepared, and will create opportunities.
Home advantage - Daejeon will be rocking and there will be no running track separating the pitch from the fans. Don't forget that Italy has been playing in Japan until now, and they will have to adjust to new surroundings as they travel to Korea. Minor factor but not trivial. Italy will be facing a lot of pressure as well - they don't want to be pelted by tomatoes again when they return home.
Hiddink - Guus has done a tremendous job thus far, and Korea will be ready with a game plan to run Italy ragged for the full 90 minutes or more if necessary. Korea is pretty much at full strength, luckily having escaped major injuries in the first round.
Confidence - Korea's biggest weakness in the past was lack of confidence more than anything else, especially when playing the big name Europeans. Korea will try to exploit the Italy defense, which is missing its best defender Fabio Cannavaro.
Italy of course poses a lot of problems for Korea. Italy has a lot of weapons - Vieri will be tough to defend, Totti is a maestro in the Zidane/Figo mold. And the diving and whining to the referee is plain disgusting. Portugal, as much as I admire them, were the biggest whiners and floppers, and extremely dirty. I think Italy will be similar. I was surprised at how mentally weak the Portugese were, definitely were feeling pressure. Likewise Italy is expected to win, and they will be under tremendous pressure.
In the end, it will boil down to who makes the least mistakes. Luck is a huge factor in a knockout tournament. Luck = opportunity + preparation. Korea will be prepared, and will create opportunities.
If Italy does go into a 442, they will be very difficult to score upon to say the least. They will obviously be looking to counteraattack the entire game and we all know how dangerous they are at that. If Korea has shown any weaknesses, its probably in their inability to effectively defend against the counterattack and the loose ball within 50 meters of the goal. Hiddink has not been able to tap into this long standing issue.
That said, Hiddink will most likely go with a 4 back himself or may even opt to go with a 343 to effectively control the midfield thereby squandering Italy's ability to counter.
Its going to be a low scoring game which ever way you look at this and expect Korea to come out cautiously like it did against Portugal.
You guys also have to remember that the monkey has been lifted. Korea was never expected to make it into the 2nd round. I expect Korea to play a much looser brand of football, brimming with confidence.
That said, Hiddink will most likely go with a 4 back himself or may even opt to go with a 343 to effectively control the midfield thereby squandering Italy's ability to counter.
Its going to be a low scoring game which ever way you look at this and expect Korea to come out cautiously like it did against Portugal.
You guys also have to remember that the monkey has been lifted. Korea was never expected to make it into the 2nd round. I expect Korea to play a much looser brand of football, brimming with confidence.
Imk looking for input on this thought...
I don't quite understand Trapattoni. Montella was on fire for Roma near the end of the season, but Trap just refused to put him as a starter. Del Piero's life-saver goal was brilliantly set up by guess who - Montella.
If I were Trap I would have put Gattuso and Montella as starters.
Thoughts?
I don't quite understand Trapattoni. Montella was on fire for Roma near the end of the season, but Trap just refused to put him as a starter. Del Piero's life-saver goal was brilliantly set up by guess who - Montella.
If I were Trap I would have put Gattuso and Montella as starters.
Thoughts?
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Normally, I have blind faith in Trapattoni. but this time i'm afraid he's screwing it up for Italy: according to early predictions and hints,the italian coach will field an ultra-defensive unit against the Koreans: 4-4-2 with Iuliano and Nesta in the middle of the defense,Panucci and Maldini on the flanks,Coco as left "winger",Totti as lone support for Vieri up front.
.............................Vieri
............................ Totti
Coco.......Tommasi......?.............Zambrotta
Maldini.....Nesta.....Iuliano.......Panucci
The insufficient form of Totti should be the reason for this choice,but in fact Trapattoni set Italy for this weird formation when he selected a nanny in Di Livio over a competent central midfielder who could provide some organization and extend the time the Azzurri have possession of the ball.with Di Biagio lost for the whole tournament there is none who can replace his skills in the roster... how precious the presence of either Corini,Fiore,Liverani would be at this point; or at least a midfielder with some offensive firepower like Ambrosini.
Instead, Italy is condemned to exploit the counterattack as their only efficient offensive tactic,and when Vieri has to do it alone it's hard to dub that system efficient... the furious accelerations with a very low success rate drain Vieri of his physical resources by halftime and the midfielders as well as they spend most of the time chasing the ball: this and not poor form might be the true reason why the team stretches out on the pitch so dangerously after 45 minutes.
Trapattoni hopes to correct that with catenaccio? I'd rather employ again the tactic vs.Mexico in the first 30-45 minutes,which was indeed successful,and THEN insert a midfielder or a forward more inclined to help the midfield and keep possession of the ball like Del Piero to protect the lead (hopefully).
but there are other solutions to work around the midfield issue:
1) if it has to be a 4-4-2,Del Piero can offer Vieri more support than Totti,and still play as a creator behind him; Doni could be added on the left flank
...................Vieri.........Del Piero
Doni.......Tommasi......?.............Zambrotta
Maldini.....Nesta.....Iuliano.......Panucci
2) if the issue is the form of Totti,replace him with Doni! he's not as talented,but he won't be a burden on other midfielders when they have to win the ball back; put Del Piero on the left with Zambo on the right and let them be more daring than usual,betting on the aerial prowess than Vieri with crosses rather than the runs up and down the pitch: against the Koreans it might be more effective.
.............................Vieri
Del Piero.....Doni.......Tommasi......Zambrotta
Maldini.......Nesta......Iuliano..........Panucci
3) again with Doni replacing Totti,but in a 3-5-2 formation,Coco and Zambo on the flanks,Vieri and Inzaghi or Montella teaming up
.........................Vieri.......Inzaghi
Coco.....Doni.......Tommasi......?.........Zambrotta
............Maldini.......Nesta.............Panucci
That is all for now unless I can come up with some new info... I am looking at the UNDER as a big play in the range of 5-10 units, will wait for official lineup before I make my decision.
GL Team
.............................Vieri
............................ Totti
Coco.......Tommasi......?.............Zambrotta
Maldini.....Nesta.....Iuliano.......Panucci
The insufficient form of Totti should be the reason for this choice,but in fact Trapattoni set Italy for this weird formation when he selected a nanny in Di Livio over a competent central midfielder who could provide some organization and extend the time the Azzurri have possession of the ball.with Di Biagio lost for the whole tournament there is none who can replace his skills in the roster... how precious the presence of either Corini,Fiore,Liverani would be at this point; or at least a midfielder with some offensive firepower like Ambrosini.
Instead, Italy is condemned to exploit the counterattack as their only efficient offensive tactic,and when Vieri has to do it alone it's hard to dub that system efficient... the furious accelerations with a very low success rate drain Vieri of his physical resources by halftime and the midfielders as well as they spend most of the time chasing the ball: this and not poor form might be the true reason why the team stretches out on the pitch so dangerously after 45 minutes.
Trapattoni hopes to correct that with catenaccio? I'd rather employ again the tactic vs.Mexico in the first 30-45 minutes,which was indeed successful,and THEN insert a midfielder or a forward more inclined to help the midfield and keep possession of the ball like Del Piero to protect the lead (hopefully).
but there are other solutions to work around the midfield issue:
1) if it has to be a 4-4-2,Del Piero can offer Vieri more support than Totti,and still play as a creator behind him; Doni could be added on the left flank
...................Vieri.........Del Piero
Doni.......Tommasi......?.............Zambrotta
Maldini.....Nesta.....Iuliano.......Panucci
2) if the issue is the form of Totti,replace him with Doni! he's not as talented,but he won't be a burden on other midfielders when they have to win the ball back; put Del Piero on the left with Zambo on the right and let them be more daring than usual,betting on the aerial prowess than Vieri with crosses rather than the runs up and down the pitch: against the Koreans it might be more effective.
.............................Vieri
Del Piero.....Doni.......Tommasi......Zambrotta
Maldini.......Nesta......Iuliano..........Panucci
3) again with Doni replacing Totti,but in a 3-5-2 formation,Coco and Zambo on the flanks,Vieri and Inzaghi or Montella teaming up
.........................Vieri.......Inzaghi
Coco.....Doni.......Tommasi......?.........Zambrotta
............Maldini.......Nesta.............Panucci
That is all for now unless I can come up with some new info... I am looking at the UNDER as a big play in the range of 5-10 units, will wait for official lineup before I make my decision.
GL Team
Time to Make $:
Impressive knowledge of the Azzuri. I wish I knew enough to debate this stuff with you. I know the country of Italy is on eggshells waiting to see who is in/out of the starting lineup.
I'm a soccer novice, but having watched all the Italian World Cup gms, I have to say Francesco Totti (apparently the heartthrob of every 16-year old Italian girl) should be yanked from the starting lineup. Frank was a butcher vs Mexico. He badly missed an open net from about 12 yards out. And he floated one corner kick to the moon. And of course, del Piero notched the equalizer after replacing Totti in the 77th minute.
GL, TTM$. Should be a great game.
Impressive knowledge of the Azzuri. I wish I knew enough to debate this stuff with you. I know the country of Italy is on eggshells waiting to see who is in/out of the starting lineup.
I'm a soccer novice, but having watched all the Italian World Cup gms, I have to say Francesco Totti (apparently the heartthrob of every 16-year old Italian girl) should be yanked from the starting lineup. Frank was a butcher vs Mexico. He badly missed an open net from about 12 yards out. And he floated one corner kick to the moon. And of course, del Piero notched the equalizer after replacing Totti in the 77th minute.
GL, TTM$. Should be a great game.
U guys know what's gonna happen now don't ya??
The Totti magnet will score twice - both of them on the field too
The Totti magnet will score twice - both of them on the field too
A hat trick? Are you kidding me, if he scores two goals Trapattoni will get to him before a female does...
I am about to post more info that I have come across
I am about to post more info that I have come across
Korean young guns cleared to answer football's call to arms
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - South Korea's young guns were given a huge boost ahead of their World Cup second round showdown with Italy on Tuesday with news that they would not have to take up guns for the country.
The Korean Government's decision to exempt the young players in the squad from their 26-month military service was greeted with enthusiasm by the camp. Ten players in the squad are affected by the ruling including the exciting Park Ji-Sung, scorer of the goal that put Portugal out of the World Cup, and tigerish midfielder Lee Young-Pyo.
The news was passed to the players before final training at the World Cup stadium here and was hailed by Yoo Sang-Chul, a veteran of the France '98 World Cup campaign, and Italy based Ahn Jung-Hwan, who is still to serve his conscription period
"Every player is happy with this decision - it will raise the morale of the team for the game with Italy," said Yoo. "A lot of the players are now looking forward to going abroad to play. Military service has hindered players from doing this in the past."
Ahn, the poster boy of Korean football who has played with Perugia for two seasons, said that it was a great relief that they would be exempted from serving in the military because of their historic World Cup run.
"This ruling has has been harmful to Korean football in the past and the decision will be of huge benefit to the game," he said.
Ahn, who came off the bench to score the equaliser against the United States in a group clash, added that the Italian players were more skilful than the Koreans but that did not count for everything.
"From my experience players in the Italian league are more skilled than us and we will be under a great deal of pressure playing against them," he said. "But physically and tactically we are not inferior. Italy play tough, tight football and it is up to us to break them down."
Korean coach Guus Hiddink, who has been lionised by Koreans after leading the team to the second round, said that he was expecting a low scoring game.
"I do not think there will be many goals," said Hiddink, who guided Holland to the semis of the 1998 World Cup. "It will be that kind of game with us attacking and Italy defending.
"But they have world class strikers who have the ability to score from few chances. That could be the difference as our strikers need a lot more (chances)."
Hiddink said that he hoped an experienced referee would be put in charge of the match.
"I cannot imagine any referee helping a big team to the next round with his decisions but I hope an experienced referee with good knowledge of the details of the game is in charge," he said.
"We need a referee who is used to handling games in big European leagues and knows how Italians play (the game)."
Hiddink would not be drawn on the Italian camps displeasure at a large banner proclaiming "1966 - Again" being in place at the stadium during their training. The banner is a reference to Italy's 1-0 loss to North Korea at the 1966 World Cup, their most embarrassing defeat ever in the finals.
"I do not know about the past but let us (Korea) make history tomorrow by trying to do the almost impossible," he said.
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - South Korea's young guns were given a huge boost ahead of their World Cup second round showdown with Italy on Tuesday with news that they would not have to take up guns for the country.
The Korean Government's decision to exempt the young players in the squad from their 26-month military service was greeted with enthusiasm by the camp. Ten players in the squad are affected by the ruling including the exciting Park Ji-Sung, scorer of the goal that put Portugal out of the World Cup, and tigerish midfielder Lee Young-Pyo.
The news was passed to the players before final training at the World Cup stadium here and was hailed by Yoo Sang-Chul, a veteran of the France '98 World Cup campaign, and Italy based Ahn Jung-Hwan, who is still to serve his conscription period
"Every player is happy with this decision - it will raise the morale of the team for the game with Italy," said Yoo. "A lot of the players are now looking forward to going abroad to play. Military service has hindered players from doing this in the past."
Ahn, the poster boy of Korean football who has played with Perugia for two seasons, said that it was a great relief that they would be exempted from serving in the military because of their historic World Cup run.
"This ruling has has been harmful to Korean football in the past and the decision will be of huge benefit to the game," he said.
Ahn, who came off the bench to score the equaliser against the United States in a group clash, added that the Italian players were more skilful than the Koreans but that did not count for everything.
"From my experience players in the Italian league are more skilled than us and we will be under a great deal of pressure playing against them," he said. "But physically and tactically we are not inferior. Italy play tough, tight football and it is up to us to break them down."
Korean coach Guus Hiddink, who has been lionised by Koreans after leading the team to the second round, said that he was expecting a low scoring game.
"I do not think there will be many goals," said Hiddink, who guided Holland to the semis of the 1998 World Cup. "It will be that kind of game with us attacking and Italy defending.
"But they have world class strikers who have the ability to score from few chances. That could be the difference as our strikers need a lot more (chances)."
Hiddink said that he hoped an experienced referee would be put in charge of the match.
"I cannot imagine any referee helping a big team to the next round with his decisions but I hope an experienced referee with good knowledge of the details of the game is in charge," he said.
"We need a referee who is used to handling games in big European leagues and knows how Italians play (the game)."
Hiddink would not be drawn on the Italian camps displeasure at a large banner proclaiming "1966 - Again" being in place at the stadium during their training. The banner is a reference to Italy's 1-0 loss to North Korea at the 1966 World Cup, their most embarrassing defeat ever in the finals.
"I do not know about the past but let us (Korea) make history tomorrow by trying to do the almost impossible," he said.
Korea not scared of penalty shoot out
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - South Korea's players will not fear a penalty shoot-out in Tuesday's World Cup match with Italy: every drawn match in the Korean league is decided with spot kicks.
The Korean Football Association introduced shoot-outs for drawn games to encourage attacking football of the type characterised by the national team in their run to the World Cup second round.
Lee Eul-Yong missed a penalty against the United States in group play. Regular taker Park Ji-Sung was off the field injured and coach Guus Hiddink said that Lee was next on the penalty taking roster.
Korean keeper Lee Woon-Jae is famed in the local football league as a "penalty blocker".
He has a 100 per cent record in penalty shoot outs with his club side Suwon Bluewings, the Asian Club champions, having come out on top on seven occasions.
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - South Korea's players will not fear a penalty shoot-out in Tuesday's World Cup match with Italy: every drawn match in the Korean league is decided with spot kicks.
The Korean Football Association introduced shoot-outs for drawn games to encourage attacking football of the type characterised by the national team in their run to the World Cup second round.
Lee Eul-Yong missed a penalty against the United States in group play. Regular taker Park Ji-Sung was off the field injured and coach Guus Hiddink said that Lee was next on the penalty taking roster.
Korean keeper Lee Woon-Jae is famed in the local football league as a "penalty blocker".
He has a 100 per cent record in penalty shoot outs with his club side Suwon Bluewings, the Asian Club champions, having come out on top on seven occasions.
South Korea go North to upset Italians
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - A huge banner at the stadium here invoking the spirit of 1966 when North Korea beat Italy in one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history put the Italian camp in a spin on Monday.
The banner, to be displayed prominently by Korean spectators at Tuesday's game, reads "1966 - Again" in English and was clearly visible during Italy's final training session ahead of their second round clash with South Korea.
The Italian camp clearly saw the slogan as intimadatory and coach Giovanni Trapattoni said that the heat was definitely being turned up by World Cup co-hosts South Korea.
"The climate for the game will not be friendly, for sure," said Trapattoni, after an hour-long training session. "I feel it (the intimadatory climate) - but I am not going to cry over it.
"For Italy it will be an away game and Korea a home match. There will be a special atmosphere. I trust the seriousness and professionalism of the referee."
Trapattoni referred to the goal by North Korea's Pak Do-Ik at the 1966 World Cup in England, which knocked Italy out in the first round, as a statistic.
"It is just a statistic," he said. "Italy have the will to win and this (the 1966 result) is not going to get in the way of this."
Asked if he or the Italian delegation would make a complaint about the banner, he said: "I am just the coach."
The win by North Korea 36 years ago still rates as the worst ever defeat at the World Cup for the three-time champions and they bristle over mention of it.
Italy were greeted by a hail of rotten tomatoes at Rome airport on their return from the World Cup in England.
Although South Korea is technically still at war with North Korea following the 1950-53 hostilities the appearance of the slogan shows that the hosts are willing to take full advantage of such an important World Cup game being a 'home fixture."
The Red Devils, Korea's fanatical fans, made life hell for Portugal at the final group game in Incheon and are expected to raise a wall of noise on Tuesday to protect goalkeeper Lee Woon-Jae.
South Korea have only played Italy once in the World Cup finals. The Italians scraped through 3-2 thanks to an own goal by Cho Kwang-Rae at the 1986 tournament in Mexico. Cha Bum-Kun, Korea's most famous player and coach of the national team at the 1998 World Cup in France, was in that side.
The controversy over the "1966 - Again" banner dominated the post-training press conference but Trapattoni did reveal some team news.
He said that Alessandro Nesta, who injured his foot in Italy's final group match, was racing to be fit and there was a question mark over whether Alessandro Del Piero would play.
"Nesta has a strong will to play and I am not ruling out any possibility," he said. "If Nesta does not play I can start with Mark Iuliano and Francesco Coco can also play on the left."
DAEJEON, South Korea, June 17 (AFP) - A huge banner at the stadium here invoking the spirit of 1966 when North Korea beat Italy in one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history put the Italian camp in a spin on Monday.
The banner, to be displayed prominently by Korean spectators at Tuesday's game, reads "1966 - Again" in English and was clearly visible during Italy's final training session ahead of their second round clash with South Korea.
The Italian camp clearly saw the slogan as intimadatory and coach Giovanni Trapattoni said that the heat was definitely being turned up by World Cup co-hosts South Korea.
"The climate for the game will not be friendly, for sure," said Trapattoni, after an hour-long training session. "I feel it (the intimadatory climate) - but I am not going to cry over it.
"For Italy it will be an away game and Korea a home match. There will be a special atmosphere. I trust the seriousness and professionalism of the referee."
Trapattoni referred to the goal by North Korea's Pak Do-Ik at the 1966 World Cup in England, which knocked Italy out in the first round, as a statistic.
"It is just a statistic," he said. "Italy have the will to win and this (the 1966 result) is not going to get in the way of this."
Asked if he or the Italian delegation would make a complaint about the banner, he said: "I am just the coach."
The win by North Korea 36 years ago still rates as the worst ever defeat at the World Cup for the three-time champions and they bristle over mention of it.
Italy were greeted by a hail of rotten tomatoes at Rome airport on their return from the World Cup in England.
Although South Korea is technically still at war with North Korea following the 1950-53 hostilities the appearance of the slogan shows that the hosts are willing to take full advantage of such an important World Cup game being a 'home fixture."
The Red Devils, Korea's fanatical fans, made life hell for Portugal at the final group game in Incheon and are expected to raise a wall of noise on Tuesday to protect goalkeeper Lee Woon-Jae.
South Korea have only played Italy once in the World Cup finals. The Italians scraped through 3-2 thanks to an own goal by Cho Kwang-Rae at the 1986 tournament in Mexico. Cha Bum-Kun, Korea's most famous player and coach of the national team at the 1998 World Cup in France, was in that side.
The controversy over the "1966 - Again" banner dominated the post-training press conference but Trapattoni did reveal some team news.
He said that Alessandro Nesta, who injured his foot in Italy's final group match, was racing to be fit and there was a question mark over whether Alessandro Del Piero would play.
"Nesta has a strong will to play and I am not ruling out any possibility," he said. "If Nesta does not play I can start with Mark Iuliano and Francesco Coco can also play on the left."
Defensive worries for Italy
The biggest injury doubt for the match is Italy's Alessandro Nesta. The pivotal defender is battling to recover from a foot injury.
Italy's defensive linchpin Alessandro Nesta will have a late fitness test before their World Cup second-round clash with co-hosts South Korea.
Nesta has missed Italy's training sessions for the last three days because of a bruised foot.
But coach Giovanni Trapattoni claims the Lazio centre-half is recovering and he will leave a decision on him until just before kick-off in Daejeon.
"The swelling in his foot has gone down, but he still feels some pain," said Trapattoni. "I don't know if he will be able to play, we will see how he is."
The loss of Nesta would be a big blow for Italy because Parma defender Fabio Cannavaro is suspended for the match.
If Nesta is ruled out then Trapattoni is likely to replace him with Juventus' Mark Iuliano.
Trapattoni was not so forthcoming about the big question as far as the Italian media are concerned would Alessandro Del Piero play?
Del Piero, yet to start during this World Cup, pressed his claims when he came off the bench to score the late equaliser against Mexico which booked Italy's place in the last 16.
The Juventus star is vying with Filippo Inzaghi for the right to partner Christian Vieri.
Trapattoni said: "Either Inzaghi or Del Piero could play, but then (Vincenzo) Montella has been playing well too.
"This is not about one individual and who should play and who shouldn't. Thisis about the whole team and picking the right 11 players - not just one."
Guus Hiddink claims it will be "almost impossible" for South Korea to beat Italy.
Korea will carry the weight of expectation of the entire nation into the game in Daejeon's World Cup stadium following their wonderful group campaign.
Many fans were already camped out at the ground more than 24 hours before kick-off and they believe Korea can emulate the achievement of the North in 1966 by reaching the quarter-finals.
Hiddink is aware their wins over Poland and Portugal have fuelled this expectation and he was keen to portray Korea as the underdogs.
"It's a good match to go into the next round and we have a lot of respect for Italy," he said.
"The way they play is very, very efficient so it will be a nice clash between number four or five in the FIFA world rankings and number 35 or 40.
"It might be another historic night and let's make history by trying to do what's almost impossible.
"We have achieved our unbelievable goal, but there is still a hunger for this match."
By contrast to Korea, Italy needed a last-gasp equaliser from Alessandro del Piero to make the last 16.
However Hiddink has warned his players there could be a backlash from the Italians to their loss to Croatia and draw with Mexico.
"I was not that surprised they lost to Croatia and drew with Mexico because the Croatian team have very good players tactically," he said.
"They also have a lot of experience so Italy lost to a good team.
"But it's how the big teams react when they are defeated which makes them stand out.
"There will be a kind of anger within them to react and show everyone what they can do."
Korea and Perugia midfielder Ahn Jung-hwan is particularly looking forward to the match, even if he did admit to a few nerves.
"I play in Italy, but I do not know everything about their players," he said. "I feel a lot of stress about the game personally."
The biggest injury doubt for the match is Italy's Alessandro Nesta. The pivotal defender is battling to recover from a foot injury.
Italy's defensive linchpin Alessandro Nesta will have a late fitness test before their World Cup second-round clash with co-hosts South Korea.
Nesta has missed Italy's training sessions for the last three days because of a bruised foot.
But coach Giovanni Trapattoni claims the Lazio centre-half is recovering and he will leave a decision on him until just before kick-off in Daejeon.
"The swelling in his foot has gone down, but he still feels some pain," said Trapattoni. "I don't know if he will be able to play, we will see how he is."
The loss of Nesta would be a big blow for Italy because Parma defender Fabio Cannavaro is suspended for the match.
If Nesta is ruled out then Trapattoni is likely to replace him with Juventus' Mark Iuliano.
Trapattoni was not so forthcoming about the big question as far as the Italian media are concerned would Alessandro Del Piero play?
Del Piero, yet to start during this World Cup, pressed his claims when he came off the bench to score the late equaliser against Mexico which booked Italy's place in the last 16.
The Juventus star is vying with Filippo Inzaghi for the right to partner Christian Vieri.
Trapattoni said: "Either Inzaghi or Del Piero could play, but then (Vincenzo) Montella has been playing well too.
"This is not about one individual and who should play and who shouldn't. Thisis about the whole team and picking the right 11 players - not just one."
Guus Hiddink claims it will be "almost impossible" for South Korea to beat Italy.
Korea will carry the weight of expectation of the entire nation into the game in Daejeon's World Cup stadium following their wonderful group campaign.
Many fans were already camped out at the ground more than 24 hours before kick-off and they believe Korea can emulate the achievement of the North in 1966 by reaching the quarter-finals.
Hiddink is aware their wins over Poland and Portugal have fuelled this expectation and he was keen to portray Korea as the underdogs.
"It's a good match to go into the next round and we have a lot of respect for Italy," he said.
"The way they play is very, very efficient so it will be a nice clash between number four or five in the FIFA world rankings and number 35 or 40.
"It might be another historic night and let's make history by trying to do what's almost impossible.
"We have achieved our unbelievable goal, but there is still a hunger for this match."
By contrast to Korea, Italy needed a last-gasp equaliser from Alessandro del Piero to make the last 16.
However Hiddink has warned his players there could be a backlash from the Italians to their loss to Croatia and draw with Mexico.
"I was not that surprised they lost to Croatia and drew with Mexico because the Croatian team have very good players tactically," he said.
"They also have a lot of experience so Italy lost to a good team.
"But it's how the big teams react when they are defeated which makes them stand out.
"There will be a kind of anger within them to react and show everyone what they can do."
Korea and Perugia midfielder Ahn Jung-hwan is particularly looking forward to the match, even if he did admit to a few nerves.
"I play in Italy, but I do not know everything about their players," he said. "I feel a lot of stress about the game personally."
Del Piero primed for action
Gideon Long
TAEJON, South Korea (Reuters) - Italy's Alessandro Del Piero says he is more than ready to play a part in his side's World Cup clash with South Korea, regardless of whether he is named in the starting line-up.
Trapattoni told reporters on Monday that he had yet to decide who would start alongside Christian Vieri in Tuesday's second round match in Taejon, but he has fielded Del Piero alongside Vieri in Italy's last two training sessions.
Asked how sure he was of starting, Del Piero, aware of the difficult selection choice Trapattoni faces, chose his words carefully.
'I'm sure that I am always ready,' he said. 'It doesn't matter whether that is as a player in the starting line-up or from the bench like last time.
'I think that's the case with (Filippo) Inzaghi and (Vincenzo) Montella and the other lads too.'
DIFFERENT ALTERNATIVES
Trapattoni has experimented with a number of different alternatives alongside Vieri.
Francesco Totti started all Italy's group matches, Del Piero came on as a substitute in two of them, Inzaghi has started one and made a late appearance in another while Montella made his tournament debut against the Mexicans.
Del Piero said Italy's attack boasted 'more diverse ingredients' that the South Korean forward line.
'Our forwards have technical ability, strength, speed, imagination and they're dangerous in the area,' he said. 'When a coach has an abundance of choice it shouldn't be a cause of concern to him.'
He said the Koreans reminded him of the Japanese, who held Italy to a 1-1 draw in a friendly late last year, and the United States, whom Italy beat 1-0 earlier this year courtesy of a Del Piero goal.
'They're very fast, very quick at breaking from the back and they have two or three players of real quality,' he said.
'Maybe for them, judging by the huge celebrations they've had, getting to the second round was a big thing in itself,' he added.
'But the fact remains that they're here now and they come into this match fired up by their success so far. Those are the things they'll draw upon for strength.'
Meanwhile, Italy will wait until the last possible moment before deciding whether defender Alessandro Nesta is fit to play.
Nesta is continuing to suffer from a badly bruised foot and says he has only a 50-50 chance of being able to face the Koreans.
'I haven't trained since the Mexico game on Thursday but we will have to see how it is tomorrow,' said Nesta.
'We will have to weigh things up tomorrow but I am still hoping and I am getting better day by day,' added the defender.
Should Nesta fail to make it, Italy will be without both their regular central defenders as Fabio Cannavaro is suspended.
Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni told reporters that Mark Iuliano was the 'natural alternative' if Nesta was absent.
Gideon Long
TAEJON, South Korea (Reuters) - Italy's Alessandro Del Piero says he is more than ready to play a part in his side's World Cup clash with South Korea, regardless of whether he is named in the starting line-up.
Trapattoni told reporters on Monday that he had yet to decide who would start alongside Christian Vieri in Tuesday's second round match in Taejon, but he has fielded Del Piero alongside Vieri in Italy's last two training sessions.
Asked how sure he was of starting, Del Piero, aware of the difficult selection choice Trapattoni faces, chose his words carefully.
'I'm sure that I am always ready,' he said. 'It doesn't matter whether that is as a player in the starting line-up or from the bench like last time.
'I think that's the case with (Filippo) Inzaghi and (Vincenzo) Montella and the other lads too.'
DIFFERENT ALTERNATIVES
Trapattoni has experimented with a number of different alternatives alongside Vieri.
Francesco Totti started all Italy's group matches, Del Piero came on as a substitute in two of them, Inzaghi has started one and made a late appearance in another while Montella made his tournament debut against the Mexicans.
Del Piero said Italy's attack boasted 'more diverse ingredients' that the South Korean forward line.
'Our forwards have technical ability, strength, speed, imagination and they're dangerous in the area,' he said. 'When a coach has an abundance of choice it shouldn't be a cause of concern to him.'
He said the Koreans reminded him of the Japanese, who held Italy to a 1-1 draw in a friendly late last year, and the United States, whom Italy beat 1-0 earlier this year courtesy of a Del Piero goal.
'They're very fast, very quick at breaking from the back and they have two or three players of real quality,' he said.
'Maybe for them, judging by the huge celebrations they've had, getting to the second round was a big thing in itself,' he added.
'But the fact remains that they're here now and they come into this match fired up by their success so far. Those are the things they'll draw upon for strength.'
Meanwhile, Italy will wait until the last possible moment before deciding whether defender Alessandro Nesta is fit to play.
Nesta is continuing to suffer from a badly bruised foot and says he has only a 50-50 chance of being able to face the Koreans.
'I haven't trained since the Mexico game on Thursday but we will have to see how it is tomorrow,' said Nesta.
'We will have to weigh things up tomorrow but I am still hoping and I am getting better day by day,' added the defender.
Should Nesta fail to make it, Italy will be without both their regular central defenders as Fabio Cannavaro is suspended.
Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni told reporters that Mark Iuliano was the 'natural alternative' if Nesta was absent.
Korea Republic-Italy
18 June, 20:30
Daejeon, Korea
Italy Versus Hosts
Italy have played the host country seven times in previous FIFA World Cup final competitions. In 1938, the Italians defeated France 3-1 in the quarter-final stage and in 1954 played two matches against Switzerland and lost both (2-1 and 4-1). In 1962 Chile defeated Italy 2-0 and in the quarter-final stage in 1970, Italy emerged victorious over Mexico by a score of 4-1. In a first stage match in 1978, Italy defeated Argentina 1-0 and four years ago in France, drew 0-0 before falling to the Argentineans on penalty kicks.
Extra Time Survivor
Italy have never lost in extra time in eight FIFA World Cup final competition matches.
Penalty Kick Curse
Italy have been eliminated after penalty kicks in each of the last three FIFA World Cup final competitions. The Italians fell to Argentina in the semi-final stage in 1990, lost to Brazil in the Final in 1994 and were eliminated in the quarter-final stage by France in 1998.
The Big 7-0
The Korea Republic-Italy match will be the 70th match for the Italians in FIFA World Cup history. Italy have registered 39 victories, 17 draws and 13 losses, while scoring 109 goals and suffering 65 against.
Strong Record
Korea Republic head coach Guus HIDDINK (KOR) has lost only one match during regulation time in a FIFA World Cup final competition. In 1998, HIDDINK??s Netherlands team fell to Croatia 2-1 in the third place final.
Leading Goalkeepers
Only LEE Woon Jae (KOR) and David SEAMAN (ENG) have had just one goal scored against them in the first round.
Ecuadorian in Charge
Byron MORENO (ECU) is only the second Ecuadorian to officiate over a FIFA World Cup final competition match. The first was Elias JACOME GUERRERO who was the referee for Spain??s 3-1 victory over Korea Republic in 1990.
18 June, 20:30
Daejeon, Korea
Italy Versus Hosts
Italy have played the host country seven times in previous FIFA World Cup final competitions. In 1938, the Italians defeated France 3-1 in the quarter-final stage and in 1954 played two matches against Switzerland and lost both (2-1 and 4-1). In 1962 Chile defeated Italy 2-0 and in the quarter-final stage in 1970, Italy emerged victorious over Mexico by a score of 4-1. In a first stage match in 1978, Italy defeated Argentina 1-0 and four years ago in France, drew 0-0 before falling to the Argentineans on penalty kicks.
Extra Time Survivor
Italy have never lost in extra time in eight FIFA World Cup final competition matches.
Penalty Kick Curse
Italy have been eliminated after penalty kicks in each of the last three FIFA World Cup final competitions. The Italians fell to Argentina in the semi-final stage in 1990, lost to Brazil in the Final in 1994 and were eliminated in the quarter-final stage by France in 1998.
The Big 7-0
The Korea Republic-Italy match will be the 70th match for the Italians in FIFA World Cup history. Italy have registered 39 victories, 17 draws and 13 losses, while scoring 109 goals and suffering 65 against.
Strong Record
Korea Republic head coach Guus HIDDINK (KOR) has lost only one match during regulation time in a FIFA World Cup final competition. In 1998, HIDDINK??s Netherlands team fell to Croatia 2-1 in the third place final.
Leading Goalkeepers
Only LEE Woon Jae (KOR) and David SEAMAN (ENG) have had just one goal scored against them in the first round.
Ecuadorian in Charge
Byron MORENO (ECU) is only the second Ecuadorian to officiate over a FIFA World Cup final competition match. The first was Elias JACOME GUERRERO who was the referee for Spain??s 3-1 victory over Korea Republic in 1990.
This was the info I was looking for...
A night of doubts for Trap-san in Daejeon, the city where the match against South Korea, co-host of the World Cup, will be played. And to be honest, even a little bit impolite since the entire curve of the stadium that will host the match of a lifetime (for the Koreans) was covered with letters glued to the seats that spelled out "Again 1966", making clear reference to the World Cup played in England when Italy, coached by Mondino Fabbri, lost to North Korea (the goal was scored by the dentist Pak do Ik). An official protest was filed by the head of the delegation, Ranucci, with Fifa, but the writing, symbol of unfair play, was not cancelled. An historical gaffe by the organising committee headed by Mong Joon Chung, who is also vice-president of Fifa. When in Korea, do as the Koreans do. Trap-san, in the meantime, has his atrocious doubts: one regards Nesta's condition, the other regards tactics, meaning Del Piero or Inzaghi? With Del Piero Italy has "more support for Totti". With Inzaghi next to Vieri "I have more depth". Perhaps during the night of torments Trap-san will end up putting Del Piero wide on the left, at least in the beginning. The Juventus captain could alternate with Totti and make life more complicated for the Koreans from a marking point of view. And then SuperPippo could become useful or as an additional forward (together with Vieri) or as a possible substitute for Bobone who has been slaving along since the start of this World Cup.
For Nesta, the Doric column of our defense (the Ionic column is Cannavaro who unforuntately is disqualified), the decision will be made at the last minute. Trap-san will be doping for a miracle up until the last minute before the match. Otherwise, it will be up to Iuliano to debut as a central defender alongside Maldini. It's almost time. ItalTrap in the red pandemonium. Never before have they been so all alone against everyone else. But Trap-san knows one thing for sure: "I saw a special glimmer in the yes of Totti and the other players". And of course, he always has his little bottle of holy water to fight off the shamans.
Even Trapattoni, during the press conference the day before the match said: "I have one doubt and it's Nesta. His foot is no longer swollen but we'll see at the last minute what to do. Until there's hope of recuperating him, we'll wait." The same situation as before the match against Mexico, but will the ending be the same, meaning Alessandro on the field? "I hope so, I think the chances of being on the field are 50-50. My foot is so-so, it's improving and we're working at it, but we don't have a lot of time. I won't practice on Tuesday morning and together with the medical staff, we'll decide what to do in the afternoon. If they think I can play, then I'll play. If not, patience." Patience up to a certain point because the match against Korea is important and the Lazio captain wants to be on the field: "I would do anything to play. I'm anxious to go on the field. We'll see. Let's just hope that my foot responds to treatment." The defender doesn't seem to be too optimistic: "I was definitely more optimistic before the match against Mexico. The fact that I played the entire match with this injury didn't help matters much. And plus I haven't even practices. The last whole practice session I had was before the match with Croatia and a lot of time has passed since then. I hope that I have enough energy stored away to play an entire match because of all the working out I did before the injury." At this point, we wonder what could help Alessandro heal rapidly: special shoes, or the infiltrations that helped him play against Mexico: "Not, I tried the shoes and they don't hurt. And I won't solve the problem with infiltrations. The truth is to heal all you need to do is rest a couple of days, but in a World Cup this is impossible." In a match that will be difficult to begin with, playing without both Nesta and Cannavaro would make things even more difficult: "We will have to line up another type of defense, different but not worse than what we've played with so far - comments Alessandro. The players who are ready to substitute us have worked a lot and are ready to play well" Someone asks him about Korea, about the writing on the seats in the stadium, about 1966, about the fans: "Yes, Korea is a strong team, they can count on their technical skills and the enthusiasm of their supporters. The writing? Who cares?." Right, so so right. This is definitely not his problem.
The Italian team went to Daejeon this morning, the city where they will play their World Cup match against Korea, the home team. Trapattoni's gang settled into their hotel and in the afternoon, at around 6:00 pm, they went to the stadium for their traditional practice session. Upon entering the stadium, there was a surprise waiting for the players: the seats in the stands were painted with the saying "Again 1966", a clear reference to the historical loss suffered by the Italian national team during the World Cup played in England against Korea. It's a pity that the Korea in question at that time was North Korea, but evidently the future reuniting of the two Koreas begins with this stadium. Trapattoni did not change his plans and after the usual warm up and athletic conditioning exercises, he had a test match of 10 on 110: Abbiati, Di Biagio and Nesta were left aside, although Nesta worked with Fausto Rossi, the athletic trainer. The Lazio captain put on his playing shoes even if he did not try to kick the ball: his recovery, just like in the match against Mexico, will be decided on at the last minute. In the meantime, the usual test match showed the players in good condition and they scored numerous goals: in the end, after about 40 minutes of play, there were 8 goals scored, four on each side. As far as the lineups are concerned, Trapattoni rightly shuffled the deck due to the presence of Korean journalists and observers in the stands. The team in red, had the Vieri-Totti-Del Piero threesome and on defense Cannavaro, Iuliano and Maldini: if Nesta does not recover in time, the Juventus defender will probably take his place. The red team was completed by Gattuso, Di Livio and Zanetti at midfield. On the other side, all the others. The match ended up 4-4: two goals for the red team scored by Vieri, an own-goal by Materazzi and a goal by Del Piero; on the other side, three goals by Inzaghi and a final goal by Tommasi. At the end, a session on free kicks and penalty kicks with Materazzi and Montella giving a good performance
A night of doubts for Trap-san in Daejeon, the city where the match against South Korea, co-host of the World Cup, will be played. And to be honest, even a little bit impolite since the entire curve of the stadium that will host the match of a lifetime (for the Koreans) was covered with letters glued to the seats that spelled out "Again 1966", making clear reference to the World Cup played in England when Italy, coached by Mondino Fabbri, lost to North Korea (the goal was scored by the dentist Pak do Ik). An official protest was filed by the head of the delegation, Ranucci, with Fifa, but the writing, symbol of unfair play, was not cancelled. An historical gaffe by the organising committee headed by Mong Joon Chung, who is also vice-president of Fifa. When in Korea, do as the Koreans do. Trap-san, in the meantime, has his atrocious doubts: one regards Nesta's condition, the other regards tactics, meaning Del Piero or Inzaghi? With Del Piero Italy has "more support for Totti". With Inzaghi next to Vieri "I have more depth". Perhaps during the night of torments Trap-san will end up putting Del Piero wide on the left, at least in the beginning. The Juventus captain could alternate with Totti and make life more complicated for the Koreans from a marking point of view. And then SuperPippo could become useful or as an additional forward (together with Vieri) or as a possible substitute for Bobone who has been slaving along since the start of this World Cup.
For Nesta, the Doric column of our defense (the Ionic column is Cannavaro who unforuntately is disqualified), the decision will be made at the last minute. Trap-san will be doping for a miracle up until the last minute before the match. Otherwise, it will be up to Iuliano to debut as a central defender alongside Maldini. It's almost time. ItalTrap in the red pandemonium. Never before have they been so all alone against everyone else. But Trap-san knows one thing for sure: "I saw a special glimmer in the yes of Totti and the other players". And of course, he always has his little bottle of holy water to fight off the shamans.
Even Trapattoni, during the press conference the day before the match said: "I have one doubt and it's Nesta. His foot is no longer swollen but we'll see at the last minute what to do. Until there's hope of recuperating him, we'll wait." The same situation as before the match against Mexico, but will the ending be the same, meaning Alessandro on the field? "I hope so, I think the chances of being on the field are 50-50. My foot is so-so, it's improving and we're working at it, but we don't have a lot of time. I won't practice on Tuesday morning and together with the medical staff, we'll decide what to do in the afternoon. If they think I can play, then I'll play. If not, patience." Patience up to a certain point because the match against Korea is important and the Lazio captain wants to be on the field: "I would do anything to play. I'm anxious to go on the field. We'll see. Let's just hope that my foot responds to treatment." The defender doesn't seem to be too optimistic: "I was definitely more optimistic before the match against Mexico. The fact that I played the entire match with this injury didn't help matters much. And plus I haven't even practices. The last whole practice session I had was before the match with Croatia and a lot of time has passed since then. I hope that I have enough energy stored away to play an entire match because of all the working out I did before the injury." At this point, we wonder what could help Alessandro heal rapidly: special shoes, or the infiltrations that helped him play against Mexico: "Not, I tried the shoes and they don't hurt. And I won't solve the problem with infiltrations. The truth is to heal all you need to do is rest a couple of days, but in a World Cup this is impossible." In a match that will be difficult to begin with, playing without both Nesta and Cannavaro would make things even more difficult: "We will have to line up another type of defense, different but not worse than what we've played with so far - comments Alessandro. The players who are ready to substitute us have worked a lot and are ready to play well" Someone asks him about Korea, about the writing on the seats in the stadium, about 1966, about the fans: "Yes, Korea is a strong team, they can count on their technical skills and the enthusiasm of their supporters. The writing? Who cares?." Right, so so right. This is definitely not his problem.
The Italian team went to Daejeon this morning, the city where they will play their World Cup match against Korea, the home team. Trapattoni's gang settled into their hotel and in the afternoon, at around 6:00 pm, they went to the stadium for their traditional practice session. Upon entering the stadium, there was a surprise waiting for the players: the seats in the stands were painted with the saying "Again 1966", a clear reference to the historical loss suffered by the Italian national team during the World Cup played in England against Korea. It's a pity that the Korea in question at that time was North Korea, but evidently the future reuniting of the two Koreas begins with this stadium. Trapattoni did not change his plans and after the usual warm up and athletic conditioning exercises, he had a test match of 10 on 110: Abbiati, Di Biagio and Nesta were left aside, although Nesta worked with Fausto Rossi, the athletic trainer. The Lazio captain put on his playing shoes even if he did not try to kick the ball: his recovery, just like in the match against Mexico, will be decided on at the last minute. In the meantime, the usual test match showed the players in good condition and they scored numerous goals: in the end, after about 40 minutes of play, there were 8 goals scored, four on each side. As far as the lineups are concerned, Trapattoni rightly shuffled the deck due to the presence of Korean journalists and observers in the stands. The team in red, had the Vieri-Totti-Del Piero threesome and on defense Cannavaro, Iuliano and Maldini: if Nesta does not recover in time, the Juventus defender will probably take his place. The red team was completed by Gattuso, Di Livio and Zanetti at midfield. On the other side, all the others. The match ended up 4-4: two goals for the red team scored by Vieri, an own-goal by Materazzi and a goal by Del Piero; on the other side, three goals by Inzaghi and a final goal by Tommasi. At the end, a session on free kicks and penalty kicks with Materazzi and Montella giving a good performance
Not sure if you've already covered all this TTM:
----------------------
Alessandro del Piero is expected to start for Italy against South Korea after lining up for the first team in training on Monday.
The Juventus striker has been a substitute in each of Italy's group games but came off the bench to score a crucial late equaliser against Mexico last Thursday.
Most of Italy's certain starters, such as Francesco Totti and Christian Vieri, wore red bibs in training on Monday, with the reserves in green.
In Italy's first two group games, manager Giovanni Trapattoni used Vieri as an out-and-out striker with Totti behind him.
But he used Filippo Inzaghi in tandem with Vieri against Mexico, with Totti in an attacking-midfield position.
Del Piero is now expected to start in place of Inzaghi against South Korea.
Asked how sure he was of starting, del Piero chose his words carefully.
"I'm sure that I am always ready," he said. "It doesn't matter whether that is as a player in the starting line-up or from the bench like last time.
"I think that's the case with (Filippo) Inzaghi and (Vincenzo) Montella and the other lads too.
"Our forwards have technical ability, strength, speed, imagination and they're dangerous in the area.
"When a coach has an abundance of choice it shouldn't be a cause of concern to him."
Midfielders Gennaro Gattuso and Angelo Di Livio also surprisingly wore red bibs on Monday.
Neither has started a match for Italy in this World Cup.
Injured defender Alessandro Nesta did a few stretches at the side of the pitch but did not participate in training.
----------------------
Alessandro del Piero is expected to start for Italy against South Korea after lining up for the first team in training on Monday.
The Juventus striker has been a substitute in each of Italy's group games but came off the bench to score a crucial late equaliser against Mexico last Thursday.
Most of Italy's certain starters, such as Francesco Totti and Christian Vieri, wore red bibs in training on Monday, with the reserves in green.
In Italy's first two group games, manager Giovanni Trapattoni used Vieri as an out-and-out striker with Totti behind him.
But he used Filippo Inzaghi in tandem with Vieri against Mexico, with Totti in an attacking-midfield position.
Del Piero is now expected to start in place of Inzaghi against South Korea.
Asked how sure he was of starting, del Piero chose his words carefully.
"I'm sure that I am always ready," he said. "It doesn't matter whether that is as a player in the starting line-up or from the bench like last time.
"I think that's the case with (Filippo) Inzaghi and (Vincenzo) Montella and the other lads too.
"Our forwards have technical ability, strength, speed, imagination and they're dangerous in the area.
"When a coach has an abundance of choice it shouldn't be a cause of concern to him."
Midfielders Gennaro Gattuso and Angelo Di Livio also surprisingly wore red bibs on Monday.
Neither has started a match for Italy in this World Cup.
Injured defender Alessandro Nesta did a few stretches at the side of the pitch but did not participate in training.
Thanks Monarch,
I am still trying to confirm if he is starting, but my wager is already in as I saw the line creeping up!!!
went Italy -.5 -118 to -140
I am still trying to confirm if he is starting, but my wager is already in as I saw the line creeping up!!!
went Italy -.5 -118 to -140
I believe Italy will start with Totti, Del Piero and Vieri at the expense of Inzaghi.
Just seen pictures of over 1 million Korean fans in the centre of Seoul. What an amazing sight.
Just seen pictures of over 1 million Korean fans in the centre of Seoul. What an amazing sight
. 