Capello picks Italy’s play-off opponent, compares Haaland to Azzurri legend

Fabio Capello hopes Italy are drawn with North Macedonia in the World Cup play-off semifinal and compares Erling Haaland to Azzurri legend Gigi Riva: ‘You’d throw the ball into the box…’

Former Italian coach Capello spoke to Gazzetta hours before the World Cup play-off draw, which will tell Italy their semifinal opponent on the road to next year’s competition.

The Azzurri already went through a tough qualification group, during which they changed coach after just two rounds, replacing Luciano Spalletti with Gennaro Gattuso and losing twice to eventual group winners Norway.

Italy conceded seven goals in two games against Erling Haaland’s side, scoring just once.

“Gattuso took charge of the team after the first two group games, picked up some good wins, and managed to give the team a bit of spirit,” Capello said.

“We didn’t see great football or strong personality; the defeat against Norway had left its mark on the players. But Gattuso did what he had to, and that’s important. Against Norway, we bowed down once again, which forced us to reassess our real capabilities.”

Haaland was the best scorer in the European qualifiers, and Norway had the best attack.

“I’m not saying they can win the World Cup, but they have real quality. In terms of being a team and in terms of talent,” noted Capello.

“They have a phenomenon, Haaland. It reminds me a bit of when Italy had Gigi Riva. You’d throw the ball into the box and he’d take care of it. He’s a point of reference and gives confidence. Then, on the last matchday, without pressure, they played differently because pressure tends to cause your arm to tighten up.”

Italy took the lead against Norway in the second-leg tie on Sunday, but the away side reacted strongly in the second half, scoring four goals.

“The first half at San Siro showed him that the team can give more and be competitive,” Capello argued.

“In the second half, he instead saw the mindset, unfortunately…”

Italy are now waiting for their play-off opponent and will get North Macedonia, Romania, Sweden or Northern Ireland in the semifinal.

“I’d still prefer North Macedonia, even just for revenge, after the experience in 2022,” said Capello.

North Macedonia already eliminated Italy in the World Cup play-off four years ago.

“Gattuso is the one who has to get rid of the ghosts, even if there’s no time,” Capello added.

“Italy must prepare with confidence. The team needs to find it again. But the mental side is the hardest part. You train and prepare the body, but with the mind, it is more difficult. You have to instil in the players the conviction and the spirit of the Azzurri shirt.”

As for the possible Final, Capello added: “I’d avoid Poland because they have Lewandowski, and we have trouble defending against top strikers. I’d prefer Slovakia.”