Italy head coach Marcello Lippi brushed aside concerns about his squad's readiness ahead of the team's opening 2006 World Cup match against Ghana on Monday, saying the current roster has both the quality and the determination to succeed without legendary former captain Paolo Maldini.
Maldini, widely considered one of the greatest defenders ever, retired from international duty after the 2002 World Cup with a record 126 caps. Lippi acknowledged his value but expressed confidence in those now wearing the Azzurri shirt.
The 58-year-old coach, who built an impressive trophy cabinet at Juventus, said he was relishing his first World Cup experience as a coach, player, or in any other role.
Italy's injury situation heading into Monday's match is a growing concern. Right back Gianluca Zambrotta and midfielder Gennaro Gattuso have both been ruled out, and defender Alessandro Nesta remains doubtful. Lippi, however, said setbacks like these do not unsettle him: "I always look for the positives in these situations," he told reporters.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in June 2006, in its own words.