Italy v Romania Euro 2008 Preview - Group C

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Dan Stephens looks forward to Italy's crunch encounter against Romania in Euro 2008 Group of Death. Defeat will mean the World Champions will be the second team eliminated from the tournament!

It’s obvious – looking at what’s coming out of the Italian camp – the Azzurri are hungry to get their European Championships back on track. AC Milan’s full-back Gianluca Zambrotta said, ‘We want to wipe out the bad start we have made and everyone is totally focused on getting the win we need.’

Team coach Roberto Donadoni was heavily criticized by the Italian media after his side’s crushing defeat at the hands of Holland and he’s expect to react by putting out a much more attack-minded starting eleven. Del Piero will act as second striker behind front man Luca Toni, while Giorgio Chiellini will also start. Daniele de Rossi and left-back Fabio Grosso could also feature.

Donadoni remained bullish before the game saying, ‘A little fear isn't a bad thing. It's healthy. The psychological aspect is important - we've got to remain clear-headed. We can't go out there thinking that if we don't score in the second, third or fourth minute it's all over.’

And he’s got the players support. ‘No-one in the squad has ever thought about having another coach,’ said Zambrotta. ‘We stand shoulder to shoulder with him and we are going to continue to do so.’

Del Piero, who will take the captain’s armband for a game Italy have to win, remained confident. ‘I always feel responsible, even when I don't play,’ he said. ‘There will be even more pressure against Romania when I'll have the armband but none of this scares me.’

Italy will be favourites to win the game and get some points on the board. They’ll definitely need them going into a final showdown with France . Of course, defeat is simply not an option.

‘This is a classic do or die match. By losing the first match 3-0 we have placed ourselves in a real predicament. It is vital we give our maximum and fight for every ball,’ said Zambrotta.

Dan Stephens

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