After Italy’s disappointing 1-1 draw with New Zealand, AS Roma midfielder Daniele de Rossi has insisted that it is not all disaster.
The Azzurri who won the World Cup title in 2006 could crash out if they fail to beat Slovakia in their upcoming fixture.
De Rossi said : “One thing is certain, we have to improve right away, otherwise we won’t even get to the second round,”.
“It may be an ugly situation, but at the same time it gives you the clarity of knowing we have to win and that’s all there is to it.”
Even if the Italian eventually qualifies, it is likely to be in second place behind Paraguay, setting up a knockout match with Holland.
“It could well be entertaining to clash with a top side like Holland, but we have to focus on beating Slovakia before even thinking about that.
“Today we were missing a little something in the final third again, not just the strikers but everyone,” said De Rossi of the 1-1 with New Zealand.
“Having said that, we spent the entire match in their half and so far in this World Cup conceded two from free kicks.”