Andrea Barzagli sees “the same hunger” in the current Italy side as in 2006, but admits “we’ve conceded too many goals.”
The Juventus” data-scaytid=”2″>Juventus defender spoke in a Press conference ahead of Saturday’s World Cup opener against England.
“We hope to bring more solidity to this defence, as objectively we have conceded a few too many goals in recent outings.
Andrea Barzagli sees “the same hunger” in the current Italy side as in 2006, but admits “we’ve conceded too many goals.”
The Juventus defender spoke in a Press conference ahead of Saturday’s World Cup opener against England.
“We hope to bring more solidity to this defence, as objectively we have conceded a few too many goals in recent outings.
“Will we be tempted by playing for a draw in the humidity and it being the first game? Absolutely not. We aim to win and I’m sure both teams will give their all to get three points.”
He won the World Cup in 2006 and sees some similarities with the atmosphere they had in Germany.
“Undoubtedly in 2006 there were players with more experience on an international level, but I think the hunger is the same today as back then.
“I’ve been through this, expecting to be fourth choice centre-back and yet getting to play in a World Cup, so I know everyone is needed to make their contribution.
“I never considered myself a phenomenon, nor do I believe I’m the best in Italy now.”
Barzagli is expected to start with his Juventus teammates Giorgio Chiellini, Gigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.
“Having a block of players from the same club certainly helps because you know each other well on the pitch.
“This Italy squad immediately became a strong group and I think that will be our main strength. We all put each other at the service of the group and help each other out.”
The centre-back’s presence at the World Cup had been in doubt until the end, as he spent a lot of time on the treatment table.
“I had many problems this season and fortunately it was the first time it had happened in my career. Now I am fit, those issues don’t affect me anymore and I am in good shape.
“I feel strong emotions, as the World Cup is the ultimate for any player. The closer we get to the first game, the more the adrenaline pumps.
“We have every right to be confident and have our certainties. We are all eager to do something extraordinary, then we’ll see what verdict the field delivers.”
England have not beaten Italy in a competitive tournament since 1977, but on the other hand they have less pressure than the Azzurri.
“We’ve got a lot of enthusiasm too, while I think it’s normal to have pressure in a country that has so much passion for football.
“We’ll go out there to play against a team with important players, but from Saturday there’s no more joking around. We’re taking it seriously and want to start this competition the right way.”