Lippi expects Italy to fightback

(GSM) – Marcello Lippi is confident that Italy can progress from the group stages of the World Cup, after two disappointing results in Group F.

New Zealand held Italy to a 1-1 draw on Sunday, after this match Italy struggling with just two points and Paraguay firmly in the lead on four points after a 2-0 win over Slovakia earlier in the day, the Italian’s chances of winning the group now look extremely slim.

Speaking at a Press Conference, Italy coach Lippi said: “What we say is all that counts, in the middle of the pitch, far from everyone.

“We met yesterday evening and again this morning before training and we must be aware of traps from the outside.

“We can still do important things in this World Cup. We can do a lot better than what we have done up to now.

“But we must take responsibility after two games that didn’t go how we hoped. It hasn’t all gone very well, but we mustn’t see the cup as half empty, because it isn’t. There isn’t any crisis.

“Seen from a certain angle these two games are negative, but seen from another they are less so. In fact, New Zealand had just two shots on goal. These juggernauts from New Zealand found themselves ahead after seven minutes and then put everyone behind the ball, but Paraguay also just had a couple of chances and no more.

“I believe I am one of the Coaches who uses his bench the most to involve the players as much as possible and because I feel it resolves problems. Many times it goes well, on other occasions it doesn’t.

“I have read that Capello is worried about the fear of his players in their attitude towards this competition. I wouldn’t like that to happen to us too.”

The Italy tactician certain his team will get a good results against Slovakia.

“They are looking for a result. I don’t believe they will get one like New Zealand.”