Marcello Lippi’s world record 31-match unbeaten run on the Azzurri bench came to a halt with a 2-0 friendly defeat against the Selecao in February.

“Hopefully this tournament will give us the opportunity to get back at Brazil,” smiled Zambrotta.

The two nations are placed in the same group and will face off on June 21, but Italy haven’t beaten them since the 1982 World Cup.

The reigning world champions make their first ever foray into Confederations territory on Monday when they begin the campaign against the USA.

“This competition will be very useful in building the squad for next year’s World Cup,” added the 2006 winner.

“That is why we want to go all the way in South Africa.”

Fabio Cannavaro faces a late fitness test to feature against the USA, but the new Juventus signing is unlikely to make it.

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Gennaro Gattuso won’t stand for superstitious talk about the Confederations Cup. “We’re here to win, not waste our time.” More

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Confederations Cup 2009
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