Italy – A. Del Piero: “Don't take me for the saviour of my homeland”

Alessandro DEL PIERO (10)

“The match against FRANCE (Friday 3 July at 16h30 in SAINT-DENIS) will be difficult because they’re playing at home. Moreover, they are a very good team, strong in midfield, and have excellent teamwork. I thought that PARAGUAY would be the surprise winners, but FRANCE-ITALY will be a very interesting match. We’ll need to push forward and give it our best shot. Clearly, in every match two or three players may not be playing to their full potential. I, though, am just getting better. I am composed and I didn’t take any antibiotics even though I got a bit congested in the plane before the match. I’m in great physical condition, and even if I get kicked a couple of times before the match I’m not going to complain. I’m used to it; I’m an attacker. Zinédine ZIDANE (10) is the guiding light of the FRANCE team, just as I am for ITALY. But no one can tell me that is DEL PIERO’s World Cup. There is no rivalry between Roberto BAGGIO (18) and me. He is a great guy who just wants the team to win. He even said that when I score a goal, everything will go better for the “Squadra”. It’s just a question of confidence; the attacker is alone to make his decision when trying to score. I may have missed a chance, but I don’t feel like I let down the team. I have highs and lows just like anyone. I have been criticised, but if our coach (Cesare MALDINI) places his trust in me, then I will play to the best of my abilities. Don’t take me for the saviour of my homeland.”