The manager of the Italian football team, Cesare Prandelli, has said that there might be a few changes in the starting XI of Italy for their second Confederations Cup match against Japan which will be played at Arena Pernambuco on Thursday.
Italy made a good start to the ongoing Confederations cup by defeating Mexico in their opening match by 2-1 on Sunday. That was a mighty close game though and was heading towards a draw at one point of time, but, in the 78th minute of the match, Mario Balotelli with a fine strike gave Italy a match winning lead.
Prandelli looked quite happy with the way his players kept their nerves during the final moments in the match against Mexico. Talking to the reporters yesterday, he said, “The boys showed great character. Mexico is a quality team, we all know that. It was tough to compete against them. But, the boys hung in there and cashed on the opportunities that they got.”
When asked what would be the Italian starting line up for the game against Japan, Prandelli said, “I think there will be a few changes. In the training session tomorrow, I will see who is in good nick and then, will take any decision. Right now, I can’t tell you who will sit out and who will play.”
Mario Balotelli was shown the yellow card after scoring that match winning goal against Mexico because he took off his jersey while celebrating.
When asked about that incident, Prandelli said, “I have asked Mario not to do it again. He has already shown his muscles to the spectators several times. There is no need to do it again.”
“However, he deserves to be praised for his performance on Sunday. He was just sensational right through the game.”