
Truly a deserving win for them. The Italian defense was fabulous as usual and got through the whole tournament with only 2 goals conceded — one an own goal, and the other a penalty. I could hardly bear to watch the penalty shoot-out and closed my eyes when Del Piero stepped up to take his shot. (worried he would do a “Roberto Baggio”!) It is interesting to note that the Italian national football team comprises of players who all play in their own country, in a few major clubs. Perhaps that is an advantage they have, as they would play together more often (both with or against each other) and read each others game better.