Former Italy goalkeeper Dino Zoff claims Spain “no longer have the unbeatable impression they gave before.”
Italy face Spain in a 2018 World Cup qualifier on Saturday at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Zoff captained the Azzurri to glory against Brazil in 1982.
“The Santiago Bernabeu? It’s a stadium that gives us luck, and it’s hopefully confirmed on Saturday,” he told AS.
“Obviously, a World Cup Final has no point of comparison with this match, but there’s still a lot riding on it.
Former Italy goalkeeper Dino Zoff claims Spain “no longer have the unbeatable impression they gave before.”
Italy face Spain in a 2018 World Cup qualifier on Saturday at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Zoff captained the Azzurri to glory against Brazil in 1982.
“The Santiago Bernabeu? It’s a stadium that gives us luck, and it’s hopefully confirmed on Saturday,” he told AS.
“Obviously, a World Cup Final has no point of comparison with this match, but there’s still a lot riding on it.
“First thing that I remember? The happiness of that night. It’s a memory that’ll always live in my head.
“I’ve only gone back there once, with Lazio in 2001, as a Coach. We lost 3-2 to Madrid. But nothing can compare to that night.
“It was like touching the sky with your hands. Being a captain at 40 years old and winning a World Cup is the pinnacle.
“However, I was never interested in being remembered as a legend. I repeat, remembering the past is nice, but it ‘happened’. You have to look forward.
“I was so excited that I wanted to kiss Queen Sofia, but I realised just in time that it wouldn’t have been right. Good job I didn’t!
“How I was treated by the Spanish fans? Always very well. Although honestly, excluding some parts of the world, Italy always receives a warm welcome.
“Spain fans supported Italy in the Final? We’re of Latin ilk too, so we’re similar… Something unites us, so it was normal.
“Meeting President Sertini? It was nice to meet him after the Final, during the return trip and the celebrations.
“He was an extraordinary character, he opened up a lot with all the players. He was like another fan.
“Do I like Ventura’s Italy? I like the fact that many young players are in the squad, a new generation. Ventura has the players and they can do well against Spain.
“Who has impressed me the most? I can’t not vouch for Donnarumma. Glad he stayed at Milan? Yes, but I would’ve avoided all the episodes. He’s young and it was best for him to stay.
“Buffon? He’s a strong point of this national team and he’s done well in wanting to keep going [with Italy]. Ready for the World Cup? It’s a year from now, we’ll see…
“Spain? They have very good players, like always, but they’re not the same as during their golden era. They no longer have the unbeatable impression they gave before.
“Result on Saturday? No, but I can say that I’m very optimistic.”