Former Italian international Marco Materazzi believes that the Azzurri can do well at the World Cup in Brazil this summer, though he feels the hosts are the favourites to win.
The Selecao were able to win the 2013 Confederations Cup at home and last won a World Cup in 2002, and the ex-Inter defender thinks they’ve remained a top contender since last winning the title over a decade ago.
Materazzi spoke to Lancenet about Brazil’s chances of winning the tournament at home this summer, while also commenting on the possibility of Italy succeeding as well.
“Despite the enormous pressure to play well and win, Brazil are still the favourites,” said the World Cup winning Italian, who won the title with the Azzurri in 2006.
“The Selecao must win, also because they haven’t won since 2002. They’re always contenders for the title.
“Brazil is the country of football, for the Brazilian motto is ‘born to play football’.
“Italy did very well at the UEFA European Championship in 2012 and despite being in a difficult group with England and Uruguay, there’s still a good possibility for them to do well.
“Historically, Italy suffers more in the first stage of the World Cup, but grows throughout the competition.”
They won in 2006 not 2002.
The Selecao are Brazil NOT Italy