Cesare Prandelli has welcomed the prospect of facing any of the qualified teams at next summer’s European Championships. Even Spain.
The draw for next summer’s tournament co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine is scheduled to take place in Kiev from 17.00pm UK time on Friday, with Italy seeded in Pot 2 alongside Germany, England and Russia.
Cesare Prandelli has welcomed the prospect of facing any of the qualified teams at next summer’s European Championships. Even Spain.
The draw for next summer’s tournament co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine is scheduled to take place in Kiev from 17.00pm UK time on Friday, with Italy seeded in Pot 2 alongside Germany, England and Russia.
Alongside the possibility of playing either of the hosts, the Azzurri could be paired with defending champions Spain, or the World Cup runners-up Netherlands from Pot 1.
There are also some big names in Pot 3 and 4 that lie in wait, with the possibility of the draw throwing up more than one group of death. Including Italy, there are seven teams in the draw that make up the current FIFA World Rankings’ top 10.
“Nervous for the draw? I do not have the chills,” declared Prandelli. “There are some very strong teams but we are calm.”
Prandelli was asked by RaiSport of the prospect of the draw producing a group for Italy with Spain, Portugal and France.
“For me, that would be fine as a group, it would be extraordinarily fascinating. If it should happen then we accept Spain without problems because we too have produced a great qualifying run.”
Italy went through their Group C campaign undefeated and with the best defensive record of any country in qualifying.
“We have to want to deal with everyone to get through to the final of these Euros. We must be happy and excited to be here, where each team is important and dangerous. Italy can play against anyone.”