It is 48 years since a country successfully defended a World Cup – when Brazil sealed back-to-back triumphs – but Marcello Lippi believes Italy (12/1 to win the tournament) can repeat that feat.
Lippi acknowledges that his current squad is not the most talented bunch of players he has ever worked with.
But he talked up Italy’s previous glories against the odds, including their wins in 1982 and four years ago in Germany.
“We’re going there with great confidence, with a status [as champions] to consolidate while also knowing the strengths of our opponents,” said Lippi.
“Many times the national team has started off not being favorites but have achieved exceptional results. We’ll give our all.”
The former Juventus boss has been stressing the importance of togetherness.
“I’ve never been as motivated as I am now. I can’t wait to begin my second World Cup,” he said.
“I think that if we want to close the gap to those teams that are better than us, the only way to do so is to be united.
“Our strength will once again be the group. That’s been my secret since I first started coaching in Serie C.
“And the proof in the pudding is that [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo only scraped through with Argentina and Portugal.”
Italy (11/1 - World Cup 2010 Alternative Outright (4 Places)) reached the World Cup with a game to spare in their qualifying campaign, but they travel to South Africa with many sceptics worrying about their chances – many of them at home.
Defender Giorgio Chiellini , however, has been quick to defend the squad.
“We are working really well. Perhaps other teams have something more in defence, but it’s not about individuals, but about team work,” Chiellini told the press at Italy’s Sestriere training camp.
“The defence works well only if the rest of the team works well too. I don’t think games depend on the two, three or four defenders that play.
“I am convinced that Italy will do well at the World Cup. Even with a normal effort we can achieve satisfaction in South Africa.”