The Azzurri

Azzurri heading to South Africa

2009-10-11T12:31:00.003-04:00

The Azzurri secured a spot in next year's World Cup tournament in South Africa with an exciting 2-2 draw with the Republic of Ireland at Croke Park in Dublin.

The Italians were behind from nearly the start when Glenn Whelan scored at the 8 minute mark. Italy would counter on a goal by Mauro Camoranesi (26') midway through the first half. The game would remain tied until Leon Best scored what appeared to be the game winner in the 83rd minute. Alberto Gilardino would play the role of hero when he scored (90') to draw the Italians even as the game neared its completion.

The victory by the Azzurri secured the top spot in Group 8 of the UEFA organazation and an automatic bid to the World Cup. The Irish are coached by former Azzurri boss Giovanni Trapattoni.

Match summary

Match stats

Azzurri move along in WC qualifier

2009-09-11T12:05:00.005-04:00

Goals by Fabio Grosso (11') and Vincenzo Iaquinta (40') helped the Azzurri secure this match against Bulgaria before half-time. The Italians were out-shot 21 to 15 but did not allow a goal playing in front of the partisan crowd at Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

The victory keeps Italy atop Group 8 with 20 points (6 wins, 2 draws) followed by Republic of Ireland (16 pts.) and Bulgaria (11pts).

Italy's next World Cup qualifier is on Saturday, October 10, 2009 versus Republic of Ireland at Landsdowne Road in Dublin. That match will be followed by a clash with Cyprus on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 in Rome.

Match Stats

Azzurri Team of the Decade 2000-2009

2009-07-20T12:34:00.001-04:00

Goal.com has announced their Team of the Decade for Italy for 2000-2009. The squad is comprised of the following players:

Gianluigi Buffon (1997- )
Gianluca Zambrotta (1999- )
Alessandro Nesta (1996-2006)
Fabio Cannavaro (1997- )
Paolo Maldini (1988-2002)
Fabio Grosso (2003- )
Andrea Pirlo (2002- )
Rino Gattuso (2000- )
Francesco Totti (1998-2006)
Christian Vieri (1997-2005)
Pippo Inzaghi (1997-2007)

Azzurri Team of the Decade

Spaniards worthy champions of Euro2008

2008-06-30T10:14:00.002-04:00

While the Germans had the experience, the Spanish had the momentum heading into Sunday's Euro2008 finals. Spain took advantage of it and defeated Germany, 1-0, for their first major tournament win in over forty years.

Lead by Fernando Torres' beautiful flick over a diving Jens Lehmann at the 33rd minute, from a perfect pass ahead by Xavi, Spain completed their championship run undefeated at 6-0 while leading the tournament with 12 goals scored. Their toughest game was a 0-0 contest with Italy in the quarter-finals which Spain won 4-2 on a penalty shoot-out. Spanish goalie Iker Casillas and their defense were outstanding, allowing three goals in six games.
Spain 1 - Germany 0
Match stats

Game Photos, Finals, June 29

Spain celebrates Euro win

The Finals-A Preview

2008-06-28T22:23:00.008-04:00

The odds-makers are saying Spain, but I am taking Germany in Sunday's final game of the Euro2008 Championship in Vienna, Austria.

On paper the tandem of David Villa and Fernando Torres look like one of the premier scoring duos heading into the tournament. Villa's four goals leads all scorers and Daniel Guiza's two goals place him in the top 10. The Spaniards are first in goals scored with 11 while the German's are tied for second with 10. German goalie Jens Lehmann has appeared shaky at times, especially early in the Turkey game. However Villa is doubtful for the match which puts more pressure on Torres who has not had much scoring success thus far.

The German front line of Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose along with midfielders Bastian Schweinsteiger and captain Michael Ballack are one of the most talented groups in the tournament. Witness their excellent counterattack during the Turkey game which knotted the game at 1-1 shortly after the Turks scored the first goal of the match. However, they are faced with a formidable task going against Iker Casillas.

I believe that the experience factor of a big game may lie with the Germans. Their starting group in the semifinal match against Turkey amassed over 500 caps. This group played in the semifinals of the 2006 World Cup against Italy while this is the first finals for the Spaniards since they lost to Michel Platini and France in Euro1984 .

My prediction is that the Germans will win the match 1-0 in regular time. Good luck to all! It's been an entertaining tournament.

Turks stun Croatia in extra time

2008-06-20T19:43:00.006-04:00

Turkey continued its improbable ride today when they defeated Croatia by penalty kicks 3-1 in Vienna. The game ended in a scoreless draw and the teams played one full period of overtime without a tally. Near the end of the second overtime, Croatia grabbed the lead and appeared to have the game in hand until Turkey countered with seconds to spare. A goal by Semih Senturk scored to take the match to penalty kicks. During PKs, Turkey converted on all three while Croatia, dumbfounded by the turn of events, was only able to manage one penalty kick.

Croatia had previously beaten Germany in group play while on their way to three victories. Meanwhile,Turkey scored three goals within fifteen minutes to erase a 2-0 deficit against Czech Republic which took them from the brink of elimination all the way into the semifinals. The Turks will face Germany on Wednesday in Basel.
Turkey 3 - Croatia 1 (PKs)
Game stats

Game Photos, Germany v. Portugal, June 19 and Croatia v. Turkey, June 20

The Great Eight

2008-06-19T07:56:00.004-04:00

The final groupings have been decided after yesterday's matches in Group D. The pairings and the remainder of the schedule are as follows.

Thursday, June 19
Portugal (A1) v. Germany (B2), 2:45pm (EST) Basel, SW

Friday, June 20
Croatia (B1) v. Turkey (A2), 2:45pm (EST), Vienna

Saturday, June 21
Netherlands (C1) v. Russia (D2), 2:45pm (EST), Basel, SW

Sunday, June 22
Spain (D1) v. Italy (C2), 2:45pm (EST), Vienna

Wednesday, June 25
Semifinals, A1/B2 winner v. B1/A2 winner
2:45pm (EST), Basel, SW

Thursday, June 26
Semifinals, C1/D2 winner v. D1/C2 winner
2:45pm (EST), Vienna

Sunday, June 29
Finals, 2:45pm (EST), Vienna

Group D results

2008-06-18T19:49:00.003-04:00

All spots have been decided after Russia bested Sweden 2-0.

Spain clinched a perfect record in group play as they defeated a tough Greece team 2-1.

Group C decided

2008-06-17T19:49:00.008-04:00

Holland did Italy a favor as they completed a sweep of Group C after defeating Romania 2-0. A win by Romania would have put them into the round of 8, knocking out Italy and France with whom they tied in both matches.

Holland 2 - Romania 0
Game stats

Meanwhile, Italy survived the "Group of Death" as they soundly defeated rival France in a rematch of the World Cup finals from 2006.

France was required to play a man down from the early parts of the match as Eric Abidal was sent off for a tough tackle on Luca Toni. Andrea Pirlo would score on the ensuing penalty kick giving the Italians a 1-0 lead at the 25 minute mark. Earlier in the game Franck Ribery was carted off the field after a difficult challange against Gianluca Zambrotta and he did not return.

Later in the second half, Daniele DeRossi scored off a deflected indirect kick which glanced off of Thierry Henry and into the net. This goal would ice the game at 2-0. For his efforts, DeRossi was voted the Carlsberg Man of the Match.

Riding the momentum from Gianluigi Buffon's unbelievable save against Romania, Italy played a good game and the confusion that seemed to occur frequently on the defensive side earlier, disappeared for the most part.

This was hardly a replay of the 2006 final and it is obvious that they miss the leadership and tenacity of players like Zidane Zidane and Fabien Barthez. The French side finished a disappointing fourth in their group with two losses and one tie in group play and it appears their great decade long run of success may have come to an end.

Italy 2 - France 0
Game stats

Group C photos, June 17

Group B results

2008-06-16T19:44:00.006-04:00

The Germans secured a place in the next round as they dispatched of co-host Austria 1-0 in a closely contested match. Michael Ballack scored the lone goal for the Germans shortly after half-time. On Thursday, Germany will face Portugal, who was the winner of Group B, in a match-up of two of the pre-tournament favorites.
Germany 1 Austria 0
Game stats

Croatia finished out pool play with their third win as they defeated Poland 1-0. Their surprise victory over Germany last week, vaulted them to the top of Group B. They will face Turkey on Friday.
Croatia 1 - Poland 0
Game stats

Group B photos, June 16

Group A, final day

2008-06-15T18:49:00.005-04:00

Co-host Switzerland salvaged a measure of pride with a 2-0 win over one of the tourney favorites, Portugal. It should be noted that the Portuguese squad rested eight starters in advance of their game in the final eight next week. It was also their first win ever in a Euro tournament game.
Switzerland 2 - Portugal 0

Turkey proved the old soccer adage that the riskiest lead is two goals when they came from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 3-2 after trailing 2 -0. It was one of the greatest comebacks ever in a tournament of this caliber as they scored their three goals in the final fifteen minutes of the game.

The win puts Turkey into the final round of eight as the second place team from Group A. They will play the winner of Group B.
Turkey 3 - Czech Republic 2

Group A photos, June 15

Group standings and scenarios after two games

2008-06-14T20:20:00.013-04:00

Here are the point standings in each group after the first two games. The final games of pool play will begin tomorrow and end on Wednesday (6/18). The top two teams in each group will qualify for the final eight. One team from each group has already qualified.

The first place team from Group A will play the second place team from Group B while the first place team for Group B will play the second place team for Group A. This pattern is the same for Groups C and D. The possibilities listed below are from the Euro2008 website.

Group A
Portugal-6 pts.
Czech Republic-3
Turkey-3
Switzerland-0

Remaining games-GROUP A (Sunday, June 15)
Switzerland (0 pts., out) vs. Portugal (6 pts., 1st place- Group A)
Turkey (3 pts.) vs. Czech Republic (3 pts.)
Portugal have clinched first place and Switzerland will finish fourth ahead of their game in Basel, so the focus will be on the winner-takes-all meeting of the Czech Republic and Turkey in Geneva. After a win and a loss each, the two teams are level in second place on points, goal difference and goals scored, so if they draw over 90 minutes, under UEFA regulations there will be a penalty shoot-out.

------------------------

Group B
Croatia-6 pts.
Germany-3
Austria-1
Poland-1

Remaining games-GROUP B (Monday, June 16)
Poland (1 pt.) vs. Croatia (6 pts., 1st place-Group B)
Austria (1 pt.) vs. Germany (3 pts.)
Croatia are confirmed group winners so will take on Turkey or the Czech Republic in Vienna on 20 June. However, Germany, Austria and Poland all have chances of earning a Basel tie against Portugal the night before. Germany, two points ahead of their rivals, need only draw with co-hosts Austria in Vienna as then Poland could not catch them on head-to-head record even if they beat Croatia in Klagenfurt. If Austria win they would go through, unless Poland defeat Croatia by a bigger margin to overtake the co-hosts' currently superior goal difference (1-2 to 1-3).

If Austria and Poland finish level in second position on points, goal difference and goals scored, they will be split on qualifying coefficients (points per game) from the 2006 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2008™, and Poland are superior 2.167-1.500 (only Austria's World Cup results count as they did not have to qualify for this tournament).

------------------------

Group C
Holland-6 pts.
Romania-2
Italy-1
France-1

Remaining games-Group C (Tuesday, June 17)
Netherlands (6 pts., 1st place-Group C) vs. Romania (2 pts.)
France (1 pts.) vs. Italy (1 pts.)
Again, top spot is decided in favour of the Netherlands, and second-placed Romania will join the Dutch in the quarter-finals by winning their encounter in Berne. If Romania draw or lose then that would allow either France or Italy to go through by winning their match in Zurich – the only way Les Bleus can progress. If Romania lose and the others play out a score draw, Italy would go through in a three-way head-to-head tie on two points as they would have scored more goals in the games involving France and Romania.

If Romania fall by one goal, two goals or by a three-goal margin other than 3-0 and the other match finishes 0-0, Romania would advance as their head-to-head record with Italy would be dead level but they would have a superior overall goal difference (or in the case of the three-goal defeats, goals scored). If Romania lose by four goals or more and the other game ends 0-0, Italy would proceed with a better overall goal difference than Romania. If Romania lose 3-0 and the other match finishes 0-0, Italy and Romania would have to be split on qualifying coefficients, in which case Italy would prevail 2.364-2.250.

------------------------

Group D
Spain-6 pts.
Russia-3
Sweden-3
Greece-0

Remaining games-Group D (Wednesday, June 18)
Greece (0 pts., out) vs. Spain (6 pts., 1st place-Group D)
Russia (3 pts.) vs. Sweden (3 pts.)
Spain completed a quartet of group winners with their last-gasp 2-1 defeat of Sweden and Russia's 1-0 victory against holders Greece, who are now eliminated. Therefore all the focus is now on Sweden's meeting with Russia in Innsbruck. Sweden are ahead on goal difference, so they require only a draw to set up a second consecutive UEFA European Championship last-eight encounter with the Netherlands in Basel on 21 June; Russia must win to go through. Whatever the result of Spain's Salzburg encounter with Greece, they will travel to Vienna on 22 June to take on the Group C runners-up.

Group D results

2008-06-14T20:09:00.007-04:00

Spain has sealed a spot in the final eight with a 2-1 victory over Sweden. David Villa's late score gave Spain the win and was his fourth of the tourney.
Spain 2 - Sweden 1
Game stats

Meanwhile, the dream is over for Greece. The defending Euro champions from 2004, have been eliminated from contention with one game remaining after they were beaten by Russia, 1-0.

Russia 1 - Greece 0
Game stats

Group D photos, June 14

You're kidding, right?

2008-06-14T17:38:00.007-04:00

The referee that disallowed Luca Toni's goal in the game against Romania yesterday has admitted that he made a mistake on the call. However UEFA had supported the on-field decision in an earlier statement.

Of course this is of little help since the call cannot be reversed. The Italians are in desperate need of a win against France and some help by the Dutch on Tuesday.

Sorry, Luca?
UEFA supports call

Holland slays another giant

2008-06-13T23:54:00.003-04:00

The Dutch squad, coached by former great Marco VanBasten, has clearly moved to the front of the line of contenders with their second straight defeat of a favorite when they demolished France 4-1.

France pulled to within 2-1 after a goal by Thierry Henry but Holland immediately countered one minute later with a score by Arjen Robben to restore the two goal lead. By virtue of both wins, Holland has clinched a spot in the final eight with one game remaining in group play.

Game story
Game stats

Group C photos, June 13

Italy still alive for final eight

2008-06-13T22:35:00.000-04:00

Italy was able to salvage a 1-1 draw with a difficult Romania squad that is also battling for the round of eight. Once again the Azzurri were the victim of a curious offside call after Luca Toni scored on a header. Later Gianluigi Buffon saved this tournament for Italy when he stopped a penalty kick that he hit with his hand and deflected out of the goal area with his foot in one unbelievable motion.
Italy awaits another clarification
Depending on how you look at it, Italy is either very lucky to still be in it or they did what was required to remain in contention for that final spot.

In order for Italy to qualify, they will have to defeat France on Tuesday while Holland needs to defeat Romania. If Romania would defeat Holland, Italy would be eliminated regardless of their outcome against France.

Game story
Game stats

Game photos

The Don shakes up lineup

2008-06-13T09:21:00.003-04:00

Italian coach Roberto Donadoni has inserted Alessandro DelPiero into the starting lineup in an attempt to jump-start his squad in today's match against Romania.

DelPiero to start

Group B results

2008-06-12T22:39:00.006-04:00

Pre-tournament favorite Germany lost in stunning fashion, 2-1 to Croatia. Germany's lone tally came at the 79th minute with the game basically decided. Croatia now leads Group B with 6 points and have clinched a spot in the final eight. They are followed by Germany with 3 points.

Croatia 2 - Germany 1
Game stats

Co-host Austria scored a goal on a penalty kick in the 90th minute to tie Poland 1-1 who had led since the 29th minute. The tie gives Austria hope of moving on to the final 8. They would have to defeat Germany next week to continue on in the tournament.

Austria 1 - Poland 1
Game stats

Group B photos, June 12

The heat is on

2008-06-11T22:43:00.008-04:00

Italian coach Roberto Donadoni has defended his team's performance on Monday while the critics are pointing out many of the team's shortcomings.
Changes coming for second game?

Meanwhile coach and players alike insist that they are still in the hunt for a spot in the round of 8. However such a scenario would require large wins over Romania (Friday) and France (next Tuesday). After one game Italy is down (-3) in the goal differential category.
Italy still in it?

Group A, the second time around

2008-06-11T18:55:00.000-04:00

Portugal assured themselves a place in the final eight when they soundly defeated the Czech Republic 3-1. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a goal and assisted on the final tally for the Portugese. The victory puts them in first place in Group A with six points.

Portugal 3 - Czech Republic 1
Game stats

Turkey pulled of a stunner by defeating co-host Switzerland, 2-1, with the game winning goal scored in extra time. The Swiss were leading 1-0 at one point. It also spells the end of the road for them since they are 0-2 so far with one game to play.

Turkey 2 - Switzerland 1
Game stats

Group A photos, June 11

Group D results

2008-06-10T15:11:00.008-04:00

Spain routed Russia 4-1 in the first game of the day led by a hat trick by David Villa.

Spain 4 - Russia 1
Game stats

Defending Euro2004 champs, Greece were soundly beaten by Sweden 2-0 in the second game of the day. Goals were scored by Ibrahimovic and Hansson.

Sweden upsets Greece, 2-0
Game stats

Group D photos, June 10

Italy embarassed by the Dutch, 3-0

2008-06-09T21:43:00.007-04:00

In one of the most lopsided losses in recent memory, the Azzurri were soundly beaten by Marco VanBasten's squad from the Netherlands, 3-0. The Italians had several opportunities early but were unable to capitalize. The Dutch countered later by scoring two goals within five minutes at the 26 and 31 minute marks.

There was some controversy as the first goal was awarded to Ruud VanNistelrooy although he appeared to be in an offside position. The referees allowed the goal and UEFA has since agreed with the decision on the field. The Italians seemed to unravel at that point.

The difficulty is that they are now down three goals in the differential category and it will be tough for them to qualify even if they win their next two. They play Romania on Friday and a win is essential in their quest to reach the knockout phase.

Game story
Game photos
Game stats

Early results for Group C, France v. Romania

2008-06-09T12:10:00.008-04:00

France and Romania played to a somewhat boring 0-0 draw. It should be noted that Thierry Henry did not play in the match.

Game stats

Group C photos, June 9

Italy v. Netherlands, Game Preview

2008-06-08T22:30:00.003-04:00

The Azzurri open tournament play this afternoon when they take on the Netherlands in the Swiss capital city of Berne. They are favored to win the match but it will be interesting to see how the team responds to the absence of Fabio Cannavaro who is unable to play due to an ankle injury.

Fox Sports game preview

Day Two, Group B action

2008-06-08T22:13:00.005-04:00

Croatia disappointed the Austrian home crowd as they defeated the co-hosts 1-0 on an early goal by Luka Modric.

Early goal holds for Croats
Game stats

Meanwhile, Polish born Lukas Podolski scored two goals for Germany as they defeated Poland 2-0.

Podolski finds net twice
Game stats

Group B photos, June 8

Opening Day at Euro2008

2008-06-07T21:00:00.010-04:00

The opening match did not go as planned when the host team lost to the Czech Republic 1-0 at St. Jakob Park in Basel, Switzerland today.
Czech Rep. 1 - Switzerland 0
Game stats

In other action Portugal defeated Turkey 2-0 in Group A action in Geneva.
Portugal 2 - Turkey 0
Game stats

Group A Game photos, June 7

Donadoni gets rewarded

2008-06-04T12:04:00.003-04:00

For all of the doubters in the world of Azzurri soccer, this may not be the news they wanted to hear. Coach Roberto Donadoni has secured a vote of confidence when he was offered a new two-year contract recently. Speculation was that should his team perform poorly or below expectations, that he would be replaced, possibly by Marcello Lippi the previous Azzurri coach.

Donadoni to sign shortly

A look at Italy in past Euro Finals

2008-06-03T20:24:00.000-04:00

The Azzurri have been far more successful in the World Cup tournament than they have in the Euro Tournament since 1960. During that time the team has captured the championship twice (1982, 2006), and runner-up once (1994) while and winning the Euro championship once (1968) and runner up once (2000) with minimal success in-between.

Past Azzurri Euro results

1960 Did not Enter
1964 Did not Qualify
1968 Champions
1972 Did not Qualify
1976 Did not Qualify
1980 Fourth place
1984 Did not Qualify
1988 Semi-final
1992 Did not Qualify
1996 Round 1
2000 Runners-up
2004 Round 1

Italy arrives in Austria

2008-06-03T08:30:00.001-04:00

Italy set up camp earlier this week in Baden, Austria, in preparation for their first game next Monday vs. the Netherlands. Azzurri make camp

Here are photos of the Azzurri while training in Coverciano prior to their departure for Austria.
Training photos

Cannavaro ruled out for Euro2008...vows to be back for World Cup 2010

2008-06-02T15:38:00.005-04:00

The Azzurri suffered a major blow to their chances in the upcoming Euro2008 tournament when captain and key defender Fabio Cannavaro suffered an injured ankle in practice last week.
Injury disables Cannavaro

After it was determined that he was out for the tournament, he agreed to stay with the squad and said his plans to retire from the Azzurri after Euro2008 would have to wait. He said he will remain with the team through the World Cup in 2010.
Cannavaro ruled out for Euro2008

Italy dispatches the Belgians 3-1 in warm-up

2008-05-30T15:27:00.004-04:00

Antonio DiNatale scored two goals in the first half with the third netted by Mauro Camoranesi after halftime. The Belgians gained a small measure of respect with a goal at the ninetieth minute.

3-1 Italy

Belgium "friendly" on May 30

2008-05-29T12:43:00.003-04:00

On Friday, May 30, the Azzurri will take on the Belgian team in preparation for the Euro2008 tournament in June. The game will be played at Stadio Artemio Franchi (Stadio Comunale) in Florence and is their last game before the tournament begins. It should be noted that Belgium failed to qualify for Euro2008 finishing fourth in Group A with 14 points.

It appears that the duo of Alessandro DelPiero and Antonio Cassano will be paired together in support of Luca Toni along the front line. New partnership debuts on Friday

Azzurri part of ESPN ad campaign

2008-05-25T23:33:00.005-04:00

The Italian team has one of several ads that is part of ESPN's lead-up to coverage of Euro2008. The ad captures the essence of the drama that is Italian soccer. Other commercials in include ones for Germany, Spain, Portugal and Greece. ESPN ad

Cassano and DelPiero in, Inzaghi out

2008-05-20T22:26:00.005-04:00

Roberto Donadoni has begun the process of forming his squad for the upcoming Euro2008 tournament. There were several surprises including the inclusion of Alessandro DelPiero along with Antonio Cassano while leaving Pippo Inzaghi off of the squad much to his displeasure.

Inzaghi not happy with omission

Roster of 24 selected for Azzurri

2008-05-20T22:21:00.002-04:00

The 24 man roster for Italy was named earlier today and is as follows.

Squadra Azzurri named

Goalies:
Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)
Marco Amelia (Livorno)
Morgan De Sanctis (Sevilla)

Defenders:
Christian Panucci (AS Roma)
Fabio Grosso (Lyon)
Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid)
Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan)
Gianluca Zambrotta (FC Barcelona)
Andrea Barzagli (Palermo)
Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus).

Midfielders:
Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan)
Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)
Massimo Ambrosini (AC Milan)
Daniele De Rossi (AS Roma)
Simone Perrotta (AS Roma)
Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus)
Alberto Aquilani (AS Roma)
Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina)

Forwards:
Luca Toni (Bayern Munich)
Antonio Di Natale (Udinese)
Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese)
Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus)
Marco Borriello (Genoa)
Antonio Cassano (Sampdoria)

Azzurri go flat in Euro tune-up v. Spain; defeat Portugal in February

2008-05-20T22:09:00.002-04:00

After a nearly six month absence from the scene, I thought it was time to check in on the Azzurri as they begin preparations for the Euro2008 which begins in a few weeks.

Back on March 26 the Italians lost a heart-breaker to Spain 1-0. David Villa scored the game's only goal at the 76 minute mark to extend Spain's unbeaten streak to 14 matches. Italy had several chances including a goal by Luca Toni that was called back for offsides.

Coach Roberto Donadoni downplayed the defeat by saying that Italy did not deserve to lose the match.

Match report: Spain 1 - Italy 0

On February 6, Italy soundly defeated Portugal, 3-1 in Zurich Switzerland, in another friendly. It was their first international game since securing a spot in Euro2008 in December. Luca Toni continued his excellent play as he secured the first Italian score just before the halftime whistle.

Match report: Italy 3 - Portugal 1

Group of Death awaits Italy in Euro Finals

2007-12-02T12:43:00.001-05:00

The Azzurri were grouped with rival France along with Netherlands and Romania of Group C in the Euro2008 tournament to be hosted jointly by Switzerland and Austria between June 7 though June 29, 2008.

Italy's schedule is listed below.

match 6	June 09	Netherlands	20:45	in Berne
match 13	June 13	Romania	18:00	in Zurich
match 22	June 17	France	20:45	in Zurich

Roberto Donadoni was cordial in his comments regarding the draw while French coach Raymond Domenech was not pleased at his team's grouping. The Azzurri are scheduled to play France on June 17 in Zurich.

Coach's reactions

The official draw event was held earlier today in Lucerne, Switzerland. Italian great Dino Zoff was on hand to assist with the draw. Switzerland will play in the first game against Czech Republic on June 7 at St. Jakob-Park in Basel.

The other three groups are comprised as follows:
Group A
Switzerland
Czech Republic
Portugal
Turkey

Group B
Austria
Croatia
Germany
Poland

Group D
Greece
Sweden
Spain
Russia
Group D news

Complete match schedule

Brazil named as hosts of World Cup in 2014

2007-12-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

This bit of news is about a month old but in October FIFA named Brazil as the host of the World Cup in 2014. Brazilian stars Kaka, Dunga, Ronaldinho and Lucio are shown modeling World Cup 2014 t-shirts.

Interestingly enough, Brazil was the only country to officially bid on this event. Fellow South American countries Columbia and Chile had expressed an interest in the staging the event but later quit their efforts.

Many in the soccer community have expressed concern about the violent crime that is prevalent in Brazil and the lack of adequate infrastructure including many of the stadiums. The Brazilian government has pledged millions of dollars in an effort to improve the situation. They also believe that this event will be the impetus for economic growth in the country.

Brazil named hosts

Seleção to host cup

Euro draw on Sunday

2007-11-26T12:20:00.000-05:00

The tournament draw for the 16 qualifying teams will be held in Lucerne, Switzerland on Sunday. The teams will be reorganized into four groups of four.
Tournament draw on Sunday

Host nations Austria and Switzerland received automatic bids while the remaining 14 spots were contested beginning in September 2006 and are shown below.
Draw seeds announced

Group A
Portugal
Poland

Group B
Italy
France

Group C
Greece
Turkey

Group D
Czech Republic
Germany

Group E
Croatia
Russia

Group F
Spain
Sweden

Group G
Romania
Netherlands

Is it that time already?

2007-11-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, groups were selected for the upcoming World Cup 2010 qualifiers today. Italy landed in Group 8 with Bulgaria, The Republic of Ireland, Montenegro, Cyprus and Georgia.

Even though Italy are the reigning World Cup champions, they are now required to qualify for their spot just like the other teams. This is the first year that this rule is in effect. Host nation, South Africa, is the only team guaranteed a spot with 31 places to be determined.
Bulgaria and Ireland in Group 8

The other groups in Europe are as follows:
Group 1-Portugal, Sweden, Denmark, Hungary, Albania, Malta
Group 2-Greece, Israel, Switzerland, Moldova, Latvia, Luxembourg
Group 3-Czech Republic, Poland, Northern Ireland, Slovakia, Slovenia, San Marino
Group 4-Germany, Russia, Finland, Wales, Azerbaijan, Liechtenstein
Group 5-Spain, Turkey, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Armenia, Estonia
Group 6-Croatia, England, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Andorra
Group 7-France, Romania, Serbia, Lithuania, Austria, Faroe Islands
Group 8-Italy, Bulgaria, Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia, Montenegro
Group 9-Holland, Scotland, Norway, FYR Macedonia, Iceland

See the World Cup homepage for details on other groups, countries and continents.
World Cup 2010 homepage

Italy takes first place against Faroe Islands

2007-11-22T12:34:00.000-05:00

The Azzurri moved quickly, with a little Faorese generosity, as they posted a 3-1 victory to secure first place in Group B. Italy was aided early by an own goal by Fródi Benjaminsen after 11 minutes. Luca Toni, repeating his play of late, scored at the 36 minute mark while Giorgio Chiellini scored at 41 minutes to close out the Italian scoring for the day. Rógvi Jacobsen would tally a goal for the Faroers at the 81st minute as the game wound down.
Italy wins finale
Game photos

Meanwhile, rival France fought to a 2-2 tie with Ukraine in Kiev.
France draws

Italy finishes in first place with 29 points while France ended play in second place with 26 points. A promising stretch run by Scotland, who upset the French 1-0 in September, ended in disappointment as they failed to qualify with 24 points. A 2-0 loss to Georgia in October followed by the 2-1 loss to Italy last week sealed their fate.
Final Standings

Cannavaro tops Zoff

2007-11-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

Azzurri captain Fabio Cannavaro moved into second place in caps when he played in his 113th game during Italy's game against the Faroe Islands last week. He surpassed Dino Zoff, who was the goalie on the 1982 team which won the World Cup that year. Paolo Maldini is the all-time leader for Italy with 126 caps.
Cannavaro now No. 2

War of words begins

2007-11-20T12:36:00.000-05:00

The French have created a bit of a stir by qualifying while not playing a game due to Italy's win over Scotland. Their coach Raymond Domenech has stated that he wants to show that no help was needed, especially from their old "friends" the Italians. They are preparing to play the Ukraine in their final qualifying match.
"We earned it" say the French

Meanwhile, Gennaro Gattuso was happy to qualify but was miffed that they helped the French along the way.
Italy thankful but...

More Italy v. Scotland photos

2007-11-19T09:42:00.000-05:00

Here are a few more photos from Saturday's game against Scotland from the au.fourfourtwo.com website.

Scotland's favorite son, Rod Stewart, was in attendance Saturday evening.

Luca Toni slices through the Scottish defense for Italy's first goal.

Andrea Pirlo saves a goal with this timely header as Gianluigi Biffon and Stephen McManus look on.

The fallen Gabriele Sandri was on the minds of many during the match.

The following link is from the Channel4.com website.
Photo Gallery

Game photos

2007-11-17T17:16:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos from today's game taken from the Euro2008 site and ESPN-Soccernet. Check out the new uniforms too.

Luca Toni exults in the rain as Mauro Camoranesi approaches.

Luca Toni phones home as he celebrates his opening goal at the two minute mark.

Tough physical play was the rule on both sides as Gattuso and Pirlo will agree with.

Christian Panucci's game winner in extra time seals the victory. Azzurri teammates try to capture Panucci after his goal.

FoxSports Photo gallery
Italy-Scotland game article

Italy in after 2-1 victory!

2007-11-17T14:15:00.002-05:00

Italy has secured a spot in the Euro2008 tournament after a 2-1 win over Scotland in the steady rain at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Luca Toni scored just after the opening whistle when he took a pass from Antonio DiNatale and deposited in the Scottish net at the two minute mark. That goal would stand as the only one of the match until Ferguson evened things at the 65th minute when he finished off a bobbled save by Gianluigi Buffon.

At the beginning of extra time Christian Panucci headed in the game winner off of a chip from Andrea Pirlo and the Azzurri controlled the final two minutes to complete their quest.
Luca sets the tone
Minute-by minute match report

Donadoni playing to win

2007-11-17T11:28:00.000-05:00

Coach Roberto Donadoni is on the brink of qualifying the Azzurri for one of two Group B spots for the Euro2008 tournament.
Don to honor Azzurri

His squad faces group leader Scotland on Saturday in Glasgow. A win would almost assure the team of their entry into the Finals next summer in Switzerland and Austria. A tie would keep them close with a final game against Faroe Islands next week. However a loss would probably doom the team to third place behind Scotland and France and probably cost Donadoni his job.

The always critical Italian press has come down hard on Donadoni several times during his tenure since taking over from Marcello Lippi after the World Cup victory last July in Germany. Initially his team struggled during the early phase of qualifications but they have regrouped nicely during 2007 by going 5-0-1 to contend for those two spots. His only blemish was a 0-0 tie versus France in September and a 3-1 friendly loss to Hungary in which only three members has previous experience with the Azzurri.

Donadoni has warned his team of a similar situation when the Azzurri where unable to qualify for the Euro 1984 after winning the World Cup in 1982. Veterans like Gianluigi Buffon will certainly make Donadoni's job easier.
Buffon ready

Italy to have new away jersey in Scotland game

2007-11-16T22:14:00.000-05:00

Puma and the FIGC have announced that Italy will be wearing a new away uniform kit for their game in Scotland on Saturday. The uniform will feature the FIGC logo with four stars signifying Italy's four World Cup championships and gold trimmed collar along with a stripe of the tre colori which was missing from the most recent design.
New uniform unveiled in Scotland game

Coach Roberto Donadoni and captain Fabio Cannavaro were in attendance at the press conference on Wednesday.

Thanks to Neo for letting me know.

FORZA AZZURRI!

DelPiero left off of squad

2007-11-11T20:31:00.000-05:00

Alessandro DelPiero was passed over by Roberto Donadoni and replaced with newcomer Raffaele Palladino for Saturday's key Euro2008 qualifying match with Scotland.

The game will be played at Hampden Park in Glasgow at 5pm local time (6pm in Italy).
Palladino on squad

Tragic day in Serie A

2007-11-11T20:20:00.000-05:00

A Lazio fan was shot and killed by the police earlier today as they tried to curtail a dispute with Juventus supporters at a highway rest stop near Arezzo in the Tuscany region.
Sad day for Italian soccer
Italy stunned

The match between Inter and Lazio was cancelled and the start of other Serie A games was delayed by 15 minutes.
Games affected

France wins, Scotland loses, Italy watches

2007-10-17T22:11:00.000-04:00

While Italy was hosting South Africa in a friendly match in Siena this evening, they were also watching the scoreboard for news on their two main rivals for the top spots in Group B qualifiers.

In Nantes, France, Thierry Henry broke Michel Platini's all-time goal mark for France when he netted a pair of goals in their 2-0 victory over Lithuania.

Henry scored at the 79th and 80th minute marks to give him a total of 43 goals for his career. Platini scored 41 goals in his time with France which spanned from 1976 to 1987. He is now the head of European soccer's governing body, UEFA.

This victory allowed France to take possession of first place in Group B with 25 points.
Henry surpasses Platini

In other action, previous group leader Scotland was upset by Georgia 2-0 in Tblisi. It was only Georgia's third win in 11 tries in the tournament.
Scots tripped up in Georgia
Tournament photos

This result leaves Scotland in second place with 24 points, one behind group leader France at 25 and only one point ahead of Italy at 23. Scotland will host Italy in a match in Glasgow on November 17 which will likely decide the tournament fate for both. France takes on Ukraine on November 21st.

Azzurri victorious in Siena

2007-10-17T21:55:00.001-04:00

The Azzurri defeated South Africa 2-0 in a friendly match this evening in Siena. Cristiano Lucarelli scored both goals in a game that fielded only three players from last year's World Cup championship team. Incidentally, Lucarelli was not a member of that team but played for head coach Roberto Donadoni in Livorno last year.

It is believed that this match was the first game ever played in Siena by the national team. Siena was scheduled to host a friendly with Romania in February but the match was canceled after a policeman was killed during riots at a game in Catania, Sicily.
Siena "friendly" to Azzurri

Azzurri fast forward

2007-10-16T15:38:00.001-04:00

Italy faces 2010 World Cup host South Africa on Wednesday in Siena. When they do, it will be with a number of new faces including Paolo Cannavaro the brother of Azzurri captain Fabio Cannavaro. The attempt is for many young players to gain international experience prior to 2010.
Young guns ready

South Africa is coached by former Brazilian coach Alberto Parreira who lead the selecao to the 1994 World Cup Championship versus Italy in Pasadena.
An old foe looks forward to game

Italy wins 2-0 over Georgia

2007-10-14T15:53:00.000-04:00

The Azzurri kept pace with the other leaders in Group B with a tough 2-0 win over Georgia in Genova on Saturday night.

Andrea Pirlo scored first with a goal shortly before the half and Fabio Grosso sealed the game with a tally at the 84th minute.
Italy 2 - Georgia 0
Tournament action photos

Italy trails Scotland by one point with 23 points after a 3-1 win over Ukraine and France is in third with 22 points after a 6-0 rout of Faroe Islands.

Italy plays Scotland in Glasgow on November 17 in a game that will likely decide the winner and second place qualifiers for this group. Their final game is against Faroe Islands on November 21.

France finishes with games against Lithuania (10/17/2007) and Ukraine (11/21/2007) while Scotland takes on Georgia (10/17/2007) and hosts Italy on November 17th.
Buffon looking for help

Buffon to wear captain's band vs. Georgia

2007-10-12T15:44:00.000-04:00

Gianluigi Buffon has been named captain for Saturday night's encounter with Georgia at Luigi Ferraris stadium in Genova. Usual captain Fabio Cannavaro was disqualified earlier for this match.
Buffon ready

Italy gets it done in Ukraine

2007-09-15T12:28:00.000-04:00

Facing a tough crowd in Kiev and a must-win situation, the Azzurri secured three valuable points as they defeated Ukraine 2-1 on September 12.

Antonio DiNatale scored twice in the victory. The first tally gave Italy a 1-0 lead in heading into halftime. Ukraine would draw even at the 71st minute but DiNatale put the Italians on top for good with his second goal just 6 minutes later.
DiNatale, twice as nice

Italy is now in second place in group B and has a favorable schedule with the following games coming up including a key match-up with first place Scotland.
Georgia on Oct. 13 in Genova
Scotland on Nov. 17 in Glasgow
Faroe Islands on Nov. 21 in Modena

France-Scotland Shocker!

2007-09-14T12:20:00.000-04:00

Dark horse Scotland pulled one of the big upsets of the Euro2008 qualifiers on September 12 when they defeated World Cup runner-up France 1-0 in Paris. The victory gave Scotland the lead in Group B with 21 points. Italy is second with 20 and France is third with 19. The top two teams from each Group will qualify for the Finals in 2008.
Scots upset Les Bleus

Italy plays France to a 0-0 draw

2007-09-09T12:10:00.000-04:00

Italy gained a measure of revenge but also missed on a great chance to move head of rival France after drawing 0-0 in Milan on September 8 in Euro Qualifiers.

The game was a big improvement from the poor showing last fall against France in the early rounds when the fell 3-1 in Paris.

Their next game is against Ukraine on September 12 while France takes on Scotland.
Italy draws with France

Azzurri buried by Hungarians in tune-up

2007-08-29T12:05:00.000-04:00

The Azzurri stumbled through a uninspired friendly with Hungary on August 22nd. After taking a 1-0 lead on a goal early in the second half by Antonio DiNatale, the Italians surrendered three second half goals in within 15 minutes.

They were without several key players including Gennaro Gattuso and the newly retired Francesco Totti and Alessandro Nesta.

Of course the usual outcry for the dismissal of head coach Roberto Donadoni followed this poor performance. This game was to be a warm-up for the two upcoming Euro qualifiers against France and Ukraine in September.

Game summary
Opinion

International Friendly against Hungary up next

2007-08-07T12:28:00.000-04:00

The Azzurri continue their preparation for their September Euro2008 qualifiers when they travel to Budapest to take on Hungary in a friendly game on Wednesday, August 22, 2007. The game will be played at Ferenc Puskas Stadium. Rosters for both sides have not been announced yet.

Hungary next

To NY

2007-07-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago, we visited New York City on our family vacation. As you may remember, I stayed in the area (Newark, NJ) for the 1994 World Cup game between Italy and Ireland but our only venture into the Big Apple was to see the Yankees play in the Bronx the night before. So seeing New York City proper has always been something I have wanted to do.

On our first night we stopped into a small pizzeria called "Bella Napoli" near Rockefeller Center. The food was good and there was the constant music of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra songs playing in the background which made for a good atmosphere. There were pictures of various members of the Azzurri posted on the wall behind the counter. There was one of German coach Jurgen Klinsmann holding a super-imposed pizza that I thought was pretty funny too.

The next day we visited Ellis Island. Even though my dad did not come through there I found it very moving as I thought of the thousands of immigrants that arrived there with only the clothes on their back and maybe a suitcase or a steamer trunk with all of there possessions. I know that some of the older Calabrese that my dad knew when I was a kid had probably come through there but sadly they are no longer around to ask.

The record for the most persons processed was 11,000 in one 12 hour period in 1907. That is nearly one thousand people per hour. The medical staff had roughly 6 seconds to scan an immigrant for illness or disease and mark their lapel or shirt with a code so they could receive aid if needed. It was truly an amazing place.

The Statue of Liberty was the second part of the tour and I found it interesting that we were required to go through a security check before we boarded the boat and again before we entered the actual Statue. Again it was quite an amazing place. The National Park Service does a good job of keeping the area clean and providing adequate food and restroom facilities too.

The following evening we took the Subway to Chinatown at Canal Street. From there it is just a few blocks to Mulberry Street and Little Italy. As soon as I got there I felt like I was somewhere else, somewhere familiar. In the back of my head I kept hearing the words to a whole bunch of Billy Joel songs too. "Big Man on Mulberry Street","Scenes from an Italian Restaurant", 52nd Street" and "Anthony's Song (Movin' Out)" to name a few.

The back cover of The Stranger album was in my thoughts too. The picture of Phil Ramone, Liberty DeVito, Doug Stegmeyer, Richie Canatta and Billy Joel on that album is reminiscent of some of the basements that I spent my childhood in. Lots of stories, lots of wine and lots of good food. For me, as an Italian kid growing up in the 70's, that picture was also my idea of being Italian and what being from New York must be like. Even though Billy Joel isn't Italian, I always thought that he played the part well.

As you might find in Italy or anywhere in Europe. there were merchandise stands with jersey's, photos and posters of the Azzurri. There were photos of Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro and Frank Sinatra among others. It was fun to browse and try to barter for a better price.

We ate dinner at a place called La Mela which means the "The Apple" in Italian. The food was good and there was a guy playing the guitar and singing songs. A few tables away were a group from Umbria. They were having a serious conversation about something in Italian and when they talked it sounded like they were reading poetry.

On the way out I noticed this table with some overweight middle aged guys and it looked like something right out of the Soprano's. Don't stare too long or you might get shot!

Little Italy was a great experience that didn't last long enough for me. For a brief second I felt like I might have been somewhere in Italy. Perhaps in Rome or maybe even in Fuscaldo with by dad's family.

Unfortunately the Italian identity has been diluted here in Cincinnati and isn't as noticeable as it might have been in the '70's when I was a kid. The elders don't get around very much anymore and the next generation and their kids have melded into the suburban mainstream.

While there are a few groups that continue some of the traditions, it just doesn't have the same feel that it had 30 years ago when I was a kid. I feel bad that my kids don't really get the chance to be around that very much. But I was very happy that they got to see Little Italy.

Francesco Totti announces his retirement from the National Team

2007-07-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

Azzurri and AS Roma superstar Francesco Totti has announced that he is retiring from the National Squad. He said he is concerned about his long term health and thought it would be best to step aside at this point. Totti was only a few months removed from a horrific broken ankle when he played for the Azzurri in the World Cup last year. However he has not played for the National Team since then.

His announcement has ended nearly a year of speculation about his future. Of course this decision has sparked a full range of reactions from complete understanding to disappointment and even anger at the way he handled the situation. The National Soccer Federation (FIGC) had given him until the end of July to make up his mind due to upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers against France and Ukraine in September.

Totti says he is retiring from the Azzurri

Time to move on says Totti

Donadoni diplomatic about decision

He honoured us

Totti selfish?

And now more criticism

Time for a little touch-up

2007-07-26T20:57:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that it has been a year since Italy defeated France in the 2006 World Cup Finals in Germany. The night before the game, I decided to give Blogger a try and come up with a place that other Azzurri fans could come for news about the team. Little did I know that it would consume me for the next two months.

Unfortunately, things like a job and everyday life can get in the way of a fun thing. So my work on this blog has diminished quite a bit. But I will continue to update the site if I run across something interesting. I will also keep updating it as the next round of qualifying games and the actual Euro 2008 tournament approach.

So in honor and celebration of this anniversary, I have added a couple of new sections entitled 2006 World Cup Videos and 2006 World Cup Fun Stuff. They contain various videos, mainly from YouTube, that are compilations of the games and post-game celebrations and some of the goofier things that followed.

Being a big U2 fan, I really like the compilation video using the song "One". The "Azzurro" video is also a favorite and it is surprising that some of the players are actually good singers but they are Italian so I would expect nothing less! The little clip of Roberto Baggio at the end of it is pretty cool since he has been one of my favorites for a long time. And my youngest son is a big Nintendo fan and we think the Ultimate Zidane Headbutt Compilation is hysterical with all of the video game references in it.

A few of the videos have been posted here before but now quick access to the Zidane head butt incident and others is just a few clicks away. So please enjoy.

And to my pal Isis. Thanks for being a good friend and giving me top billing on your blog. I hope you always realize that "Laif is nau"!!!

Let the games begin!

2007-06-07T16:01:00.000-04:00

The countdown to the start of Euro2008 has begun. One year from today, the tournament will begin.

It is being co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. Host cities include Vienna, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt and Salzburg in Austria and Geneva, Basle, Berne and Zurich in Switzerland.

Let's get it started...
365 days to go
Host cities

Italy ahead of 1982 team

2007-06-07T12:15:00.000-04:00

Italy is enjoying the glow from their recent success after five straight wins in Euro2008 qualifying. The 1982 World Cup team failed to qualify for the 1984 Euro tournament two years later. This group seems to have handled their success and the pressure to remain on top very well.

Team is better off than predecessors

Newcomer lifts Italy

2007-06-07T11:48:00.000-04:00

Fabio Quagliarella, making his first start for Italy, netted two goals in the first half as Italy coasted to a 2-0 victory over host team Lithuania yesterday evening. He scored at the 31 minute mark and again right before halftime.

Head coach Roberto Donadoni appeared to make the right move after much discussion regarding Francesco Totti and the injured Luca Toni.
Big win for Italy
Quagliarella doubles up

The victory avenges an early tie with Lithuania in the first game of qualifying last Septmeber. That result lead to immediate calls for Donodoni's removal as head coach. After a loss to France in the next game, Italy has completed five straight victories to move into second place in Group B, two points behind France and one point ahead of Scotland. Only the top two teams will make it into the Euro2008 tournament from each group.

Quagliarella repeated the same recent pattern by scoring both of Italy's goals inthe game. In the previous two games, Luca Toni (v. Scotland) and Filippo Inzaghi (v. Faroe Islands) scored two goals for Italy. He plays in the Serie A for UC Sampdoria.
Euro2008 standings
Game photos

Lithuania up next for the Azzurri

2007-06-06T12:06:00.000-04:00

The journey for a birth in the Euro2008 Championships continues for the Italian National Team this evening as they take on Lithuania in Kaunas at 9:45 pm local time. A victory would put the Azzurri in a great position in Group B where they are currently in second place, two points behind group leader France.

The French side will host Georgia while Scotland will travel to the Faroe Islands in other games today. Italy will play France in the next round of games beginning on September 8.

Totti update

2007-06-04T20:35:00.000-04:00

Francesco Totti has been the center of discussion on several fronts for the National team.

He recently announced that he believes he is ready to return to the Azzurri squad. He has not played for the national side since the World Cup Finals last July.
Totti ready for fall play?

However some have misinterpreted his comments when he said he would return for "important" matches while his teammates want to see more commitment from him.
Teammates want his full attention

Recently the FIGC and UEFA have warned him and others that they may not be able to play if they continue decline their country's call for international duty. Totti resisted requests to return to the national side until now. This may have hastened his desire to return.
Is Totti's time up?

Meanwhile he has decided not to have the metal plate in his leg removed. He broke his leg in the spring of 2006 during league play but he recovered sufficently to play effectively in the World Cup last year.
Totti says no to surgery

In Serie A play, Totti is on the verge of winning the "Golden Boot" award for the most goals scored by a European player. He has 26 goals compared to 23 by Van Nistelrooy of Real Madrid. Last years winner was Azzurri teammate Luca Toni of Fiorentina.
Totti tops in Europe for '07?

Inzaghi ices Faroe Islands

2007-06-03T20:12:00.000-04:00

On a dreary and rainy day, Filippo "Pippo" Inzaghi scored two goals for the Azzurri as they defeated the Faroe Islands, 2-1, in a Euro2008 qualifier at Torshavn on Saturday evening. He scored the first goal in the 12th minute and netted his second, four minutes after halftime. The host team drew to within a goal when Rógvi Jacobsen scored at the 77th minute.
Italy 2 - Faroe Islands 1
Fox Sports recap
Qualifier games photos

The victory moves the Italians into second place with 13 points, two points behind Group B leader France at 15 points. France defeated Ukraine, 2-0, which dropped them into a to third place tie with Scotland at 12 points.
Group B Standings

Italy's next match is on Wednesday, June 6th against Lithuania at S. Darius and S. Girenas Stadium in Kaunas.

A rematch in Italy with France looms ahead on September 8th. That game will go a long way towards determining Italy's fate for the tournament in Switzerland and Austria next year.

Italy v. Faroe Islands today

2007-06-02T14:02:00.000-04:00

Later this evening, the Azzurri continue their quest for a spot in next year's Euro2008 tournament in Austria and Switzerland when they take on the Faroe Islands in the capital city of Torshavn at 7:45 pm local time.

The Italians currently sit in fourth place with 10 points and follow a three-way tie for first place between France, Scotland and the Ukraine at 12 points in Group B. The Faroe Islands team is situated in last place in the group with zero points, having lost all six qualifying games to date.

Toni out for qualifiers

2007-06-01T09:48:00.000-04:00

Italian star, Luca Toni will miss the two Euro2008 qualifiers with Faroe Islands and Lithuania beacuse of surgery on his foot.
Toni out for next two games

He also has signed a deal to join German giant Bayern Munich after the Serie A season has concluded. He decided to go abroad rather than remain in Italy out of respect to the ownership of the Fiorentina club.
Toni leaving Fiorentina

Donadoni calm after win

2007-03-30T13:18:00.001-04:00

Italian head coach Roberto Donadoni remained calm after the big victory over Scotland on Wednesday.

Some critics called for his dismissal had the national team lost that match. The team's record in the Euro qualifiers is 3-1-1 with consecutive wins over Ukraine, Georgia and Scotland after starting off with a 1-1 tie to Lithuania and a 3-1 loss to France in September 2006.

Looking for respect
Donadoni happy with team's attitude
Gattuso defends Don

Azzurri defeat Scotland 2-0

2007-03-29T11:32:00.000-04:00

Italy maintained its momentum with a resounding 2-0 victory over Scotland in their Euro 2008 qualifying match yesterday in Bari.

Luca Toni phoned home with a goal in the 12th minute and closed the scoring with another at the 70 minute mark.
Italy 2- Scotland 0
Game photos

With the victory Italy moved to within two points (10) of the lead in Group B standings. They trail a group of three with France, Ukraine and Scotland at 12 points each. Italy has defeated both Ukraine and Scotland in the first round of qualifying games.
Group B standings

Italy v. Scotland Euro qualifier

2007-03-28T13:06:00.000-04:00

Today, the Azzurri continue their quest for a spot in the Euro 2008 tournament. They will face the Scottish National team at San Nicola Stadium in Bari.

Italy desperately needs a victory today along with the three points to move them closer to the top of the group B standings. They trail France (12), Scotland (12) and the Ukraine (9) with 7 total points and a 2-1-1 record to date.
Group B standings

Head coach Roberto Donadoni continues to draw criticism from his detractors and concerns that a loss might cost him his job. However, he has maintained his calm demeanor and seems positive about his sides chances.
Donadoni calm

Meanwhile all now appears calm in the Azzurri camp as it was reported that star goalie Gianluigi Buffon practiced with the team on Tuesday. This ended speculation about his match fitness following his bout with a stomach ailment last week. However, he would not commit to his playing status during the interview.
Buffon ready

The next game for the Azzurri is against the Faroe Islands on June 2, 2007.

Been away so long I hardly knew the place

2007-03-28T12:51:00.000-04:00

Benvenuto! Hi to all Azzurri fans and friends.

I am back. After many months of inactivity, I thought today would be a good day to start things up again. Italy is playing Scotland in a few hours and what better way to get back to blogging again than to provide a little preview and share the results when it is over.

Ciao, tutti!

Christmas comes early!

2006-11-30T13:30:00.000-05:00

I recently received a package from my cousin from Italy. In it were four items commemorating Italy's win in the World Cup.

There were two fold out posters and two magazine/photo books. I wish I could share these with everyone or figure out some way of scanning and posting all of the pictures but there are just so many great shots.

So here are a few samples. Enjoy!

And thank you Mariella.

Cannavaro collects the Golden Ball

2006-11-28T18:44:00.000-05:00

Italian defender Fabio Cannavaro recieved the Ballon d'Or or Golden Ball award Monday in Paris. It is awarded annually by UEFA for the Player of the Year. Cannavaro was second in the Golden Ball voting to Zinedine Zidane during the World Cup and some have complained (see the French) that he should not have won this award either. But that is another story.

Cannavaro, shown with Italian actress and girlfriend Monica Bellucci, is the fourth Italian player to win the award joining Gianni Rivera, Paolo Rossi and Roberto Baggio.

Cannavaro wins

Cannavaro joins other Azzuri

Zidane selected as year's biggest turkey

2006-11-23T10:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I hope that you have had a lot to be thankful for this year. I know I have been blessed this year for many things. I am especially thankful for Italy's World Cup victory over France in July.

In that spirit, Kevin Hench of FoxSports has selected his top 10 turkeys of 2006. Topping the list was our friend Zinedine Zidane for his headbutt of Marco Matterazzi during the World Cup. Zizou edged Dallas wide Reciever Terrell Owens to claim the No. 1 spot.

Top Turkeys of 2006

Champions League Results - Matchday 4

2006-11-08T12:06:00.000-05:00

In Group B action, on Tuesday October 31, Inter defeated Spartak Moscow 1-0 in Moscow on a goal by Julio Cruz in the first minute of action.
Inter 1 - Spartak 0

Roma came from behind to draw even with Olympiacos at 1-1 at the San Siro in Rome in Group D. Francesco Totti equalized for the home team on a goal in the 66th minute.
Roma 1 - Olympiacos 1

On Wednesday, November 1, AC Milan dominated Anderlecht 4-1 on three goals by Kaka and one more by Alberto Gilardino at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milano.
Milan 4 - Anderlecht 1

Inter trails Group B leader Bayern Munich by four points with 6. Roma, with 7 points is second to Valencia with 10 in Group D. Milan holds a commanding five point lead with 10 total over second place Lille with five in Group H.
Standings

Matchday 5 will take place on November 21 and 22.
Matchday 5 schedule

Transfers ahead?

2006-10-24T12:12:00.000-04:00

Two of Italy's most well known players have minimized reports that link them to other clubs during the transfer period.

Goalie Gianluigi Buffon has denied rumors that he is headed for Chelsea in England's Premier League, while Luca Toni has assured the Fiorentina faithful that he is staying in Firenze.
Buffon not leaving for Chelsea

Toni to stay

Palermo leads Serie A

2006-10-23T11:02:00.000-04:00

Palermo has taken Serie A by surprise and by storm as they sit atop the standings with 15 points on five victories. Just six years ago they were a team playing in Serie C.
Palermo in first

Serie A Standings

Champions League Results - Matchday 3

2006-10-18T19:58:00.000-04:00

The Uefa Champions League Tournament resumed for Matchday 3 over the last two evenings. It was a clean sweep for the three clubs representing Serie A in this event.

Milan was the first of the Italian trio to secure a win as they won the game versus Anderlecht in Brussels. Kaka found the net early in the second half for the lone score of the match.
Milan 1 - Anderlecht 0

Roma sent the host away disappointed on Wednesday when they beat Olympiacos 1-0 in Athens on a goal by Simone Perrotta in the 76th minute of play.
Roma 1 - Olympiacos 0

Also on Wednesday, Julio Cruz thrilled the homefolks when he scored two goals in the first 9 minutes of the game, as Inter defeated Spartak Moscow 2-1, in Milan.
Inter 2 - Spartak Moskva 1

Inter is in third place in Group B with 3 points as they trail the leader, Barcelona with 9 points. Roma is in second place in Group D with 6 points trailing Valencia by 3. Milan leads Group H with 7 points, two ahead of Lille.
Matchday 3 Results

Matchday 4 will resume on October 31 and November 1. Home teams in this round will become the visitors for the next round.
Matchday 4 schedule

Italy continues to move forward in Euro standings

2006-10-11T21:36:00.000-04:00

The winning ways continued for the Azzurri after their victory in their Euro 2008 qualifier this evening against Georgia, 3-1 in Tblisi. The Italian side now has back-to-back victories following a 1-1 tie with Lithuania and 3-1 rout by France to start their play in Group B.

Italy opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Daniele DeRossi found the back of the net for Italy. Georgian Georgi Shashiashvili finished the first half scoring when he knotted the score in the 26th minute.

Midway into the second half, Mauro Camoranesi's header put Italy ahead for good at 63 minutes. Simone Perrotta would complete the scoring with a goal in the 71st minute.
Italy 3 - Georgia 1
Euro 2008 qualifier photos

Italy finds themselves firmly in third place with 7 points, trailing behind France and Scotland by 2 points and ahead of Ukraine by 1 point.
Group B standings

Qualifying games will resume in March 2007 when Italy takes on Scotland.

All of Italy exhales at once after win

2006-10-09T22:07:00.000-04:00

Italy jump started its Euro 2008 hopes with a big victory over the Ukraine on October 7th.

The pressure was mounting on Azzurri coach Roberto Donadoni to get his first win since he was hired right after the World Cup win over France. He would have to wait nearly the entire game to be rewarded for his patience.

Luca Toni phoned home when he scored a goal in the 79th minute shortly after Massimo Oddo scored a goal on a penalty kick in the 71st minute in a game played at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Toni was tackled by Andriy Rusol resulting in Oddo's PK.
Italy 2 - Ukraine 0

Italy also received a bit of help in the standings when Scotland stunned France, 1-0.
Scotland 1 - France 0

Champions League Results - Matchday 2

2006-10-03T12:30:00.000-04:00

AC Milan and Lille dueled to a 0-0 draw last week in Champions League action.
Milan Ties

Meanwhile, Inter was defeated by Bayern Munich 2-0 on two late goals. They are at the bottom of the standings in their group.
Inter hurting

Roma found itself on the short end of a 2-1 game against Valencia.
Roma falls

The next round of games is October 17 and 18 on Matchday 3 as Milan faces Anderlecht, Inter takes on Spartak and Roma versus Olympiacos.

Matchday 2 results

Champions League Standings

Grosso out for awhile

2006-10-03T12:18:00.000-04:00

It appears that Fabio Grosso will miss several weeks due to a leg injury. He will probably be out of Inter's Champions League game against Spartak and the Azzurri's Euro qualifier match against the Ukraine.

Grosso out?

Pagliuca sets the record

2006-09-23T15:02:00.000-04:00

Veteran goalie Gianluca Pagliuca of Ascoli set the standard for the most games by a goalie when he played in his 571st match last week surpassing the legendary Dino Zoff. Pagliuca, who was the Azzurri goalie in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, will turn 40 in December. On a personal note he was one of my favorites for the national side during the 1990's.
New record for Gianluca
Pagliuca bio

Totti bows out of Euro games for now

2006-09-23T14:55:00.000-04:00

Francesco Totti will not be a member of the national side in October during the two Euro 2008 qualifiers. He is still recovering from his ankle injury suffered during the spring a wants to wait until he is in better shape in 2007. He will be missing from key games against Ukraine and Georgia.
Totti passes

RAI Azzurri video

2006-09-21T15:55:00.000-04:00

The following video was posted on YouTube back in July but I wasn't sure if everyone has seen it. It was made by the Italian TV channel RAI UNO for the Notti Mondiali in honor of Italy's victory in the World Cup. The background music is the new version of the song One by Bono and Mary J. Blige.
RAI Video

Serie A results-Week 2.5 (3)

2006-09-21T15:37:00.001-04:00

With a slate of Wednesday night games, the standings after the third week of Serie A action finds Palermo at the top. Palermo has taken the lead in the standings after posting a 5-3 win over Catania for their third win. Others on the plus side were AC Milan, Lazio, Messina, Inter and Fiorentina. Atalanta and Empoli, Sampdoria and Udinese and Cagliari and Livorno all finished with draws.
Week Three results

Palermo with nine points leads Inter and Messina by two points in the standings.
Week 2.5 (3) standings

A few new friends

2006-09-15T12:44:00.000-04:00

I have added a few new links to the My Friends section. They are blogs which have a connection to the national team or Italian soccer. I hope you find them interesting and that they might include a link to this blog on their site. Enjoy.

Champions League Results

2006-09-14T12:21:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, the Portugese entry, Sporting shocked Inter 1-0 on a goal by Marco Caneira in the second half.
Sporting 1, Inter 0

Meanwhile, AC Roma crushed Shakhtar of the Ukraine, 4-0 with four goals in 22 minutes in the second half. The Roma goals were scored by Brazilian Tadei, Francesco Totti, Daniele DeRossi and David Pizzaro.
AC Roma 4, Shakhtar 0

AC Milan made easy work of AEK (Athens) with a 3-0 victory. Pippo Inzaghi opened the scoring with a goal in the 17th minute. Yoann Gourcuff scored before the half and Brazilian Kaka finished the scoring with a penalty kick in the 76th minute.
AC Milan 3, AEK 0

Complete Matchday 1 results

Week 1-Serie A results

2006-09-12T12:31:00.000-04:00

The Serie A season finally opened this past weekend. Delayed several weeks because of appeals of the sanctions levied during the soccer scandal, the 10 game schedule started with two games on Saturday.

Atalanta, Catania, Empoli, Inter, Messina, Palermo, Roma and Siena emerged victorious while Parma and Torino finished with a 1-1 draw.
Week 1 Results
Week 1 Standings

I find it odd with Juventus absent from the Serie A listing. The were the surprised victims of a 1-1 draw with Rimini.
Juve v. Rimini recap

The Champions League resumes

2006-09-12T12:13:00.000-04:00

The UEFA Champions League will begin the next round today and tomorrow as several Italian clubs are part of the tournament.

This evening, Inter will play the Sporting club of Portugal while AC Roma will take on Shakhtar from the Ukraine.
Inter preview
Roma preview

AC Milan will face the Greek club AEK from Athens tomorrow evening.
Milan preview

Simone Perrotta of Roma discusses how Italy's World Cup triumph has affected his outlook.
Perrotta interview

The following link is the complete schedule for Matchday 1 games of the Group stage of the tournament.
Matchday 1 Schedule

5 years later......

2006-09-11T08:54:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that it has been five years since the horrible attacks on the Pentagon, the World Trade Center and aborted mission on the Capitol that ended in rural Pennsylvania in 2001.

In honor and repect to the ones that died that day I am not posting anything related to soccer, sports or Italy today. Instead, I merely offer the following video.

Even if you are not a U2 or Bono fan, I recommend this excerpt from the Super Bowl XXXVI halftime show in February 2002 from the Louisiana Super Dome in New Orleans. How ironic in light of their own misfortune during the last year.

I believe it is a fitting tribute to those that perished.
Super Bowl XXXVI halftime show

May God bless America.

A bit of revenge for Les Bleus

2006-09-07T07:15:00.000-04:00

The French side downed Italy, 3-1, yesterday evening in Paris in their first meeting since the World Cup final nearly two months ago. They scored early and often with a score by Sidney Govou in the second minute of the game. He would later follow that with his second goal in the 55th minute making the score 3-1. Italy's lone goal was scored by Alberto Gilardino at the twenty minute mark, shortly after the second French goal by Thierry Henry.
France 3 - Italy 1
Game photos

The loss puts The Azzurri in second-last place in the Group B standings with one point. The tie with Lithuania last Saturday looms large in this situation.
Euro 2008 Standings

The absense of key offensive players like Francesco Totti, Luca Toni and Alex Del Piero has me scratching my head. Coach Roberto Donadoni keeps referring to their lack of fitness as a reason for their exclusion. Perhaps there has been too much partying and who can blame them but it would be a great embarassment if the club does not qualify for the tournament in two years.

The club will have a chance to regroup when they host another World Cup nemesis, Ukraine, on October 7 and travel to Georgia on October 10. Both teams are directly ahead of Italy with four points each in the standings. A victory in both games seems mandatory at this point. Until then Signore Donadoni will face the intense pressure and scrutiny of the media and the Italian fans.

Let the wailing and gnashing of teeth begin.......

France v. Italy, parte due

2006-09-05T17:05:00.000-04:00

Italy and France will renew acquantances, less Zinedine Zidane and Marco Materazzi, on Wednesday as part of the Group B qualifying matches for the Euro 2008 tournament. The game will be held in Stade de France in Paris.

Pressure is building on new head coach Roberto Donadoni, for a good performance after a disappointing 1-1 tie with Lithuania last Saturday. Italy v. France preview

Vieri incident with Samp fans

2006-09-05T16:55:00.000-04:00

Former star striker Christain Vieri was involved in an incident yesterday in which Sampdoria fans questioned him on why he did not play for them this season. The fans passed him a nasty note and members of his party proceded to chase the pair. Vieri later intervened to stop the incident.
Vieri troubles continue

Materazzi tells us his secret

2006-09-05T15:29:00.000-04:00

Italian defender Marco Materazzi has finally told the world the answer to the most important question of the summer, "what did you say to Zidane?"

After pulling Zidane's shirt while defending him, Materazzi said that Zidane told him he could have the shirt after the game. In return, Materazzi told him he would rather have Zidane's sister instead, setting up one of the most controversial and memorable events in sports this decade.

He is currently serving a two game suspension for the incident and is unavailable for the Wednesday Euro 2008 match with France in Paris.
Not yo mamma, yo sista

Gattuso and Donadoni on Euro chances

2006-09-05T15:15:00.000-04:00

Gennaro Gattuso is tired of the talk about Zidane and the World Cup final and has encouraged his team to focus on qualifying for the Euro 2008 finals. Italy plays France on Wednesday, September 6 in their second game if qualifications.
Gattuso speaks

Meanwhile, new coach Roberto Donadoni insists that there is no need to panic at this point. France game not the end