Cesare Prandelli insists “it’s better” that Italy aren’t seeded in the World Cup draw. “I prefer humility to excessive dreams.”
The Azzurri needed one win from their final two Group B games in order to be sure of top seed status in the finals draw for Brazil 2014, but only earned 2-2 draws with Denmark and Armenia.
Cesare Prandelli insists “it’s better” that Italy aren’t seeded in the World Cup draw. “I prefer humility to excessive dreams.”
The Azzurri needed one win from their final two Group B games in order to be sure of top seed status in the finals draw for Brazil 2014, but only earned 2-2 draws with Denmark and Armenia.
There was still a chance awaiting the South American results overnight, but those did not go in Italy’s favour either, as Colombia and Uruguay both won.
The current seven out of eight seeds are Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Germany, Belgium, Colombia and Switzerland.
“We aren’t seeds? It’s better that way,” Prandelli told news agency ANSA. “I prefer humility and concentration straight away to excessive dreams.
“I am not frightened by the risk of meeting Brazil or Spain straight away. In fact, look at how it went for us at Euro 2012…”
Italy were in the same group as eventual winners Spain in that tournament and reached the Final.
The Coach also commented on the on-going controversy around Mario Balotelli.
“We have all realised that Balotelli is crucial if we want to go beyond our limits. We must get even closer to him, because the last few days have been very difficult for him.”