Brazil announce Italy friendly

July 4, 2008

The two most successful football nations in history, who have won nine World Cups between them will clash in what, on paper should be a treat for the neutrals. But given the recent form of both sides one could be forgiven for thinking we should avoid watching the game.

The two countries have indeed been involved in some World Cup classics over the years. Brazil famously thumped Italy 4-1 in the 1970 World Cup final in Mexico, with Pele giving a master class to the then European standard bearers.

The venue for the game has yet to be officially announced, with Brazil favouring to play such games in London in the past.

Twelve years later the Azzurri enacted revenge in the World Cup in Spain when they knocked out the legendary Brazilian team featuring the likes of Zico, Socrates and Falcao.

The two nations met yet again in 1994 in the World Cup final in the USA, and it was the Selecao who emerged victorious in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw. Franco Baresi, Daniele Massaro, and unforgettably Roberto Baggio missing from the spot for Arrigo Sacchi’s men.

This time round the Selecao will hopefully have secured a spot in World Cup, as they have done every year since its inauguration.

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