Azzurri: Reaction

Roberto Donadoni had to admit he was content with the 3-1 win over Portugal, his sixth on the trot.

"One really cannot complain at the end of this match, even if I am a very demanding coach. If these are the responses, then I am happy."

The Italy boss is known for never being entirely happy with his side’s performances, but enjoyed the friendly victory in Zurich tonight.

He had told the squad this week that they risked "humiliation" against the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco and Ricardo Quaresma.


"Considering some of the friendly games we have played in the past, it was good to warn them against stepping off the gas, but this group proved it is a real team and gave a fine performance."

Donadoni’s contract expires in the summer and he will now enter into negotiations with the FIGC over an extension.

However, this week FIGC President Giancarlo Abete hinted it might depend on the Euro 2008 results and that until those are certain, there will only be a handshake deal.

"The contract is the last thing on my mind and there is nothing to worry about," concluded Donadoni.

Fabio Cannavaro said he wants a Euro 2008 title to follow the World Cup and has explained why Italy now take friendlies seriously.

The captain got a touch to Andrea Pirlo’s strike in the 3-1 victory over Portugal and, only his second international goal.

"My deflection was incredibly important and I practised it in training! At least it proves Naples doesn’t just create rubbish," joked Cannavaro.

It was a confident and energetic performance, particularly in the second half.

"I don’t think we used to snub friendlies in other years either, such as when we beat the Netherlands and Germany. The Nazionale has grown so much in recent years, fighting for every game, entertaining, winning and scoring goals.

"The secret is that the new faces come into a group that is already solid and tries to improve with each day. The newcomers see that and settle in to the mentality.

"Victories like this certainly bring confidence and help you to prepare for the tournament. However, we must put the World Cup behind us and not think about it anymore, as this is a different competition with other teams.

"I’d like to follow France in winning the World Cup and European Championship back to back."

Fabio Quagliarella scored the Azzurri's third goal minutes after coming on and he has thanked Donadoni for launching his Azzurri career.

"To score with the Nazionale jersey is always a wonderful feeling. The important thing was to do well and I was fortunate to be at the right spot to turn it in.

"It is always Italy stepping on to the field and we have learned from the leaders like Fabio Cannavaro that one must always give 100 per cent and avoid embarrassing the country."

The match was played at the Letzigrund Stadion in the Swiss capital of Zurich, one of the venues that will host the Euro 2008 tournament this summer, and there was a spectacular fireworks display before and after the football.

Switzerland has a huge Italian population and they were out in force for this friendly test. The Azzurri also unveiled their new jersey for the finals, with gold piping on the v-neck collar and sleeves.

"It is wonderful to have the crowd cheering you on and Italians all over the world never fail to give us their affection and enthusiasm. It’ll be great to see them here again in the summer."

[Match Report] - [Azzurri Reaction] - [Euro 2008 Rivals]

Source: C4 Football Italia