It was the secret of their success in 2006 and FIGC chief Giancarlo Abete believes Italy can once again stand out as a unit.
“I am sorry to lose our captain and Ballon d’Or winner Fabio Cannavaro, but unfortunately we know that players can get injured in tournaments, like Alessandro Nesta at the World Cup,” said the Federation President.
“The squad has to know how to react and express its full potential as a team, just as it did in Germany.”
While early contenders Portugal are centred around Cristiano Ronaldo’s star power, the Azzurri have great strength in depth, particularly in attack.
“We enter this competition as world champions and are considered among the favourites along with Germany, France, Spain and Portugal. A competition can also be decided on incidents, as we were eliminated from four of the last five World Cups on penalties.
“It’s a very balanced playing field between world class teams. In Germany two years ago all four semi-finalists were European, so although naturally Brazil and Argentina cannot compete in Euro 2008, it remains a tournament of the highest level.
“We must remain concentrated and confident in the qualities of our team.”
Roberto Donadoni has refused to name a captain in Cannavaro’s absence, as Gianluigi Buffon will take the armband only if Alessandro Del Piero is not in the starting XI against Holland.
“There has to be a logical evaluation by the Coach. It’s important to note there is no rivalry between Buffon and Del Piero, who are both great players and teammates at Juventus. It is down to the tactician.”
Donadoni had been at the centre of a contract row for several months before Abete extended his deal until 2010.
“We are all very content to have set this problem aside, one that could have caused unrest during the tournament,” explained the FIGC chief.
“We were satisfied to renew Donadoni’s contract, though there was still great mutual respect even when we had not yet found an agreement.”
