Outright:
ITALY 6/1 @ Spodds 4 Units win
Golden Boot:
VIERI 12/1 @ Spodds 2 Units ew (1/4 1-4)
Unquestionably this is the best Italian side in 20 years. Their defense of Buffon, Panucci, Cannavaro, Nesta and Maldini is as strong as it gets at the World Cup. A nation that prides itself on the strength of its backline for generations will not disappoint in 2002. Up front Vieri, Del Perio and Totti are all exceptional in their own right. Vieri, in my opinion, is the finest centre-forward on the planet. Strong, pacey, good in the air and most importantly a natural finisher. With the support play he will receive and the nature of the Italian system he has a great chance of being the tournaments top scorer. The likely midfield of Zambrotta, Di Bagio and Tommasi should prove effective rather than spectacular. All in all this is a well balanced team, with strength, depth and cover with World Class players in the key areas.
As to their route. Group opponents Croatia, Ecuador and Mexico should be brushed aside with little effort. They will probably play South Korea in the 2nd Rd, Germany in the QF and either Portugal/Spain in the semis. None of these games should pose to many threats. Italy have been very fortunate with their draw, and should avoid France, Argentina and Brazil till at least the final.
ITALY 6/1 @ Spodds 4 Units win
Golden Boot:
VIERI 12/1 @ Spodds 2 Units ew (1/4 1-4)
Unquestionably this is the best Italian side in 20 years. Their defense of Buffon, Panucci, Cannavaro, Nesta and Maldini is as strong as it gets at the World Cup. A nation that prides itself on the strength of its backline for generations will not disappoint in 2002. Up front Vieri, Del Perio and Totti are all exceptional in their own right. Vieri, in my opinion, is the finest centre-forward on the planet. Strong, pacey, good in the air and most importantly a natural finisher. With the support play he will receive and the nature of the Italian system he has a great chance of being the tournaments top scorer. The likely midfield of Zambrotta, Di Bagio and Tommasi should prove effective rather than spectacular. All in all this is a well balanced team, with strength, depth and cover with World Class players in the key areas.
As to their route. Group opponents Croatia, Ecuador and Mexico should be brushed aside with little effort. They will probably play South Korea in the 2nd Rd, Germany in the QF and either Portugal/Spain in the semis. None of these games should pose to many threats. Italy have been very fortunate with their draw, and should avoid France, Argentina and Brazil till at least the final.
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