Toulon 2008 - Forza Italia
- From: Benny <Benny@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Thu, 29 May 2008 22:01:58 +0100
This is usually an U21 tournament but they changed it to U23 in preparation for the Olympics. The French went out with three defeats and never recovered from an incredible match against Chile which they lost 5-3 having lead 2-0 mid-way through the first half.
Italy mimicked the senior side by starting poorly. They conceded a penalty against the Ivory Coast but Bassi (Empoli) saved and Giovinco scored twice. Italy improved as the tournament went on but needed penalties to see off a disgraceful Japanese side who tried to kick them to pieces. Italy were hosed on big calls throughout. The Chileans also got away with murder in the final. The last four were Japan, Chile, Ivory Coast and Italy.
Most of Italy's starting XI are already Serie A regulars, partly down to the increased age limit and partly down to more Italians getting chances in Serie A due to the lack of money. The standout players were the entire defence, the best I've ever seen from a Italy team at youth level (they only conceded 1 goal in 5 games), Nocerino, Giovinco and Abate. Nocerino is a future Italy captain. At this level he was so far ahead of everyone else it was incredible. A born leader. I'm not sure what plans Juve have for him but instead of wasting money on Xabi Alonso they should play him in midfield alongside Sissoko. Giovinco was the standout attacker and won player of the tournament. He's tiny but doesn't draw many fouls. Milan winger Abate was largely used as a sub. His pace is extraordinary, good dribbler and crosser. The other players that caught my eye were the Ivory Coast's Djakpa who can run all day and night and the Ivory Coast full back, I'm not sure of his name. His best trick was playing blind back heel passes. The one negative of the Italy side was Pelle. This donkey is the worst player I think I've ever seen in an Italy shirt. He has a Dirk Kuyt level first touch but is a giant of a man so gets picked because they think he's the new Toni. I'm not sure why Acquafresca wasn't selected. I'm guessing Rossi was rested. Osvaldo was second choice behind Pelle and didn't do himself justice until the final in which he scored the winning goal. Guarante (Atalanta) also hit the woodwork in the final with a 40 yard lob. Inzaghi is rumoured to be picked as one of the overage players in the Olympic squad.
Over in Norway Italy's U21s have won their first two games and Paloschi has scored in both matches but they need to beat France to reach the finals tournament.
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