Azzurri aware of their task
Monday, June 21, 2004
Article summary
Italy are back in Guimarães, but in contrast to their earlier confidence, there is cause for concern as they meet Bulgaria.
Article body
Win or bust
A 0-0 stalemate against the Danes was followed by last Friday's 1-1 draw with Sweden, leaving the Azzurri third in the group, two points behind the Scandinavian rivals. Victory is therefore essential at the Estádio Afonso D. Henriques on Tuesday, although even that will not be enough if Denmark and Sweden draw by more than one goal in Porto.
'A disaster'
"We must beat Bulgaria, it is the only thing that counts," said defender Marco Materazzi. Midfield player Stefano Fiore added: "To be eliminated would be a disaster."
Controversies
Nor has the mood been helped by Francesco Totti's three-match ban for a spitting incident, or Christian Vieri walking out of Sunday's press conference.
Nesta defence
However, the players are determined to revive their fortunes and have defended coach Giovanni Trapattoni from criticism in the Italian media. Defender Alessandro Nesta said: "I have played at major tournaments before and it is always the same - the coach is criticised whatever he does. It happened with Dino Zoff, we just have to work hard and give it our best shot."
Suspended duo
Italy's lineup in Guimarães will only be clear after Monday's final training session at 19.00. Materazzi and Fiore are expected to start in place of the suspended Fabio Cannavaro and Gennaro Gattuso.
