By Anna Italia

While the Italian Serie A took a pause, some Serie A players represented their respective national teams in the EURO 2008 Qualifyers, 2010 World Cup Qualfications, EURO Under 21, and International Friendlies.  Arguably, Serie A goalkeepers did better than forwards.

Who do you think were the top Serie A players with their national teams and a disappointment?

Here are my 4 top BEST Serie A players with their national teams:

1. Andrea Pirlo  - midfielder (AC Milan) he made the first goal for the Italian against Georgia in the 44th minute. Italy 2 - 0 Georgia.

This opening goal was important for Italy to keep hope for qualification after the results of France and Scotland. Pirlo's goal had his trademark a superb  "free kick"






2. Cristian Chivu - defender(FC Inter) though recently recovered he was key for Romania victory. Romania 1 - 0 Netherlands.

Interesting, Chivu playing defender position with FC Inter, played 90 minutes in the midfielder position with his national team (Romania).






3. Gigi Buffon - goalkeeeper (Juventus) He made great saves and kept clean sheet. Besides, I liked his honesty when admitting that Italy did not play a brilliant match but that they managed to win.

As the leading captain, he also motivated the team during the match. though it is difficult to do so when you are a goalkeeper not in the middle of the field. Italy 2 - 0 Georgia.





4. Julio Cesar - goalkeeper (FC Inter). Despite the poor football display of Brazil and unexpected 0-0 draw with Colombia, Julio Cesar managed to defend Brazil's net avoiding an embarrassing defeat. 

For example, had not been for Julio Cesar's save, Colombia striker Wason Renteria would have scored at least 1 goal. 

Though Julio Cesar received a yellow card in the 45th minute for delaying the goal kick, I think he was among the top 3 best Serie A players.



Here are my disappointed Serie A players with their national teams:


1. Kaka - forward (AC Milan) Unfortunately, it seems pressure influenced with Kaka's performance. Though, I will say the entire "Brazilian forward" disappointed many. Maybe Brazil coach Dunga used too many forwards (Ronaldhino, Wagner Love, Kaka,  Robhino) Yet, I will talk only about KAKA as a Serie A Player. After being nominated for the top 30 nominees 2007 FIFA World Player, he could not shine with his team. I was expecting at least an assist from KAKA or a goal. Colombia 0 -0 Brazil.




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