By Anna Italia

I am so happy with the build up of our Italian National Soccer team for the EURO 2008.  Now, it's official, first training is over.  Following up with our AZZURRI, here is what happened at the first training.


First Training - Sunday, May 25 5:30 p.m.

• Ball possession
• Match 9 against 9 (Blues against Oranges)

Italian National Team BLUES 5 - 4 Italian National Team ORANGES

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First team of 9 - the BLUES
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Goalkeeper: De Sanctis                             
Defenders: Gianluca Zambrotta, Andrea Barzagli, Marco Materazzi;
Midfielders: Mauro Camoranesi, Andrea Pirlo, Di Natale;
Forwards: Luca Toni, Antonio Cassano.

Second team of 9 - the ORANGES

Goalkeeper: Amelia;
Defenders:  Fabio Cannavaro, Massimo Ambrosini, Giorgio Chiellini;
Midfielders: Gennaro Gattuso, Alessandro Del Piero, Riccardo Montolivo;
Forwards: Fabio Quagliarella, Marco Borriello.

Scorers:

Blue: Antonio Di Natale 2 goals, Antonio Cassano 1 goal, Andrea Pirlo 1 goal (penalty)

Orange:  Alessandro Del Piero 2 goals, Marco Borriello 2 goals, fabio Quagliarella 1 goal

Curious to see both formation because DONADONI seems to be testing key midfielders and forwards. Why having Pirlo and Gattuso in opposite sides? Then, I will think that the possible starting strikers for the Italian National team will be Luca Toni and Marco Borriello?  Having tested each in separate group.  Or will it be Cassano and Borriello?  I don't think so.  Most likely, Luca Toni is the main striker for the Nazionale right now.

According to the Italian National Team Schedule from May 25 to June 2, 2008, tomorrow Monday is double training sessions: 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. 


What do you think was Donadoni's strategy by watching the 2 group of 9 players?

Do you agree that Luca Toni is the main starting striker, yes, no, and why?