Today sees the actual start of Euro 2008. Group C has the match-ups that even non-partisan fans would be interested in watching. Everything up until now has been pretty trite.
My prediction …
Italia 1 Holland 0.
Pirlo, free kick or long range effort, after 40 mins.
Both teams will approach the game cautiously and with respect for their opponents.
I’m looking forward to seeing Italy’s set pieces in motion. We’ve got some of the best spot kick takers at this tournament. Our aerial domination has improved since Germany (where Materazzi headed in two classics).
The Dutch will keep a close eye on Luca Toni. Toni for all intents and purposes will probably be Italy’s decoy player attracting the attention of opposing defences and allowing his team mates to plug the goals (ala Germany where 10 players combined to score 12 goals).
Camoranesi won’t be effective. If he starts I’m already looking forward to seeing him being subbed.
Look for Italy’s all-round squad strength to finish-off a number of opponents. Expect some big performances off the bench from players like Cassano, Del Piero and possibly Aquilani (who will hopefully get plenty of game time).
Donadoni needs to win this one to build his confidence. A win will help ease any anxieities he may have with decision making. He won’t play the pressure situations as cooly as Lippi was able to. A sticky draw or a loss won’t help the Azzurri.
Does Rino celibrate with the Don in the same manner as he use to with Lippi?
