Sadly, the defence of today's Italy is virtually non-existent
and nothing to shout about(compared to the great old 'catenaccio'
defences of yesteryears). It proved telling 4 years ago that the
Cannavaro-Nesta partnership was quintessential to the Azzuris'
destiny(when Nesta missed the Korea clash, the defence literally
went AWOL as there was no telepathy and understanding between his
replacement) - and when Nesta went, so did the Italians.
Honestly, I'd say the Australians are better poised to beat Italy
than the South Koreans were in 2002 (in part due to the fact
Australia have got bigger and more experienced players, in part due
to the fact Italy were actually a stronger side in 2002 than they
are now) - and if Hiddink can work his magic in the absence of home
support, I see no reason why history cannot repeat itself...
No doubt the Italians will try to frustrate the Aussies if they're
ahead - but whether the Italians(spearheaded by the profligate Toni
and Gilardino) can even put themselves in that position remains to
be seen...
