World Cup winners share key message for Italy ahead of play-off

Beppe Bergomi and Massimo Oddo are confident that Italy have enough quality to qualify for the World Cup, but insist the Azzurri must show ‘humility.’

Italy will face Northern Ireland in the World Cup semifinal play-off in March.

The Azzurri also learned the possible Final opponent on Thursday, as they’ll travel to either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina if they beat Northern Ireland.

“We should learn a lesson from the previous play-off. Let’s not focus on the opponent. We must give our all with heart and pride,” 2006 Italy World Cup winner Oddo told Gazzetta (via TMW).

“First of all, we must believe in ourselves and be aware of our strength. Second: we must face every commitment with humility. If things are done properly, Italy has everything to qualify for the World Cup.

“We have avoided teams that, on paper, were more dangerous. With all the respect due to Northern Ireland, they are formed by players coming from the lower divisions. Rino will be a guarantee; everyone must keep their feet on the ground and prepare for every little detail. The coach must be listened to. We need a group of players who understand the message and the importance of the target.”

Bergomi, a 1982 Italy World Cup winner, added: “I’m happy we avoided Sweden; we would have struggled against their physicality. Northern Ireland also have a strong identity and, mostly, they run a lot. Technically, we are surely superior. If I had to pick an opponent for the Final, I’d say Wales. I don’t trust Bosnia and the Slavic school.

“What matters, however, is not falling into depression in the months ahead of the play-off. We must try to have positive energy, humility and courage. These lads keep hearing that there are no more Tottis or Del Pieros, but they must know they are not bad. Italy have quality in every department, even if Gattuso will have to pick a specific system and stick to that. We are better than what we think we are and than how we are described abroad; we must start from this.”