Chiellini didn’t start that game either. Neither did Del Piero. Neither did Marco Amelia.

Correlation does not imply causation, and vice versa.

—————Buffon
Zambrotta—Legro–Chiellini–Grosso
—Gattuso—–Pirlo—–De Rossi
Camoranesi—-Iaquinta—-Rossi

Camo is not a typical forward, but i think he would still do better in that role than Foggia and certainly Pepe. I give Legro a start over Cannavaro because he’s also got alot of experience at 30-something years old, plus hasnt really slowed down as much as Canna. And it’s undeniable that Legro and Chiellini complement each other very well, they play so much better together. Zambrotta didnt have a great season at Milan, but not a bad one either and still performs well for the National team, just look at the friendly against Brazil. And Gilardino had a good game against New Zealand, but i dont think he should be starting. Quagliarella is a better target man in my opinion.

Actually, i forgot about Giuseppe Rossi, so i would take Quagliarella out, put Iaquinta into the center, and Rossi out on the left instead.

—————Buffon
Zambrotta—Legro–Chiellini–Grosso
—Gattuso—–Pirlo—–De Rossi
–Camo——Quagliarella—Iaquinta

Camo is not a typical forward, but i think he would still do better in that role than Foggia and certainly Pepe. I give Legro a start over Cannavaro because he’s also got alot of experience at 30-something years old, plus hasnt really slowed down as much as Canna. And it’s undeniable that Legro and Chiellini complement each other very well, they play so much better together. Zambrotta didnt have a great season at Milan, but not a bad one either and still performs well for the National team, just look at the friendly against Brazil. And Gilardino had a good game against New Zealand, but i dont think he should be starting. Quagliarella is a better target man in my opinion.

Toni will perform better against the US? Who scored the only goal (past an American keeper that is) in the WC? “ALBERTOOOOOOO, GILLLLLLAARRRRDIINNNOOOOO!” – Caressa
Just had to point that out. Sure it was a set piece, and Toni could have finished that too.

Alessio- I have to say, I love your line-up and reasoning behind it. The US performs well against tactically predictable teams (ie: Mexico) but fails against scrappy sides (ie: Costa Rica) I think Lippi may throw that line-up out, but with Toni instead of Gila and DDR over Palombo. Toni/Gila, Rossi, and Iaquinta all bring different stuff to the table and should confuse the shit out of the US. Hopefully, the confusion doesn’t mess up our own attack lol. The physical midfielders are key too.

***Also, we need stalwart defense from Zambrotta if Donovan is on the left side like he was against Honduras for USA. He is there to attract the defense and open up the middle for Altidore and buds. Zambro better be on his game, I’m almost scared enough to mention….Santon….but we all know that will never happen. If we stop Donovan, are physical in the midfield, and can put 1 or 2 in, this game is easily won. Bada bing.

Or a sign that I recognize simple tactics. It’s been discussed many times how De Rossi and Pirlo will fuck with each other if they are both playing. A top-class Pirlo with Palombo/Gattuso to do all the terrying in midfield is a lot better than De Rossi trying to do everything. Andrea won the Bronze ball at WC2006 after all.

Was not aware that Amelia was one of my superheroes, but thanks for letting me know.

also, i have seen Cannavaro play for Real … and i have seen Chiellini play. how many titles did Chiellini win with Juve? Real one two. both teams finished 2 in their respective leagues this year, but the Liga is really a much more attacking league … more goals are to be expected.

besides, whether it is Chiellini, Legrottaglie or Gamberini, they all do better when they are playing with Cannavaro alongside.

…just wait and see how your superheroes perform tomorrow. NewZealand put 3 easy ones by them. US will be a tougher test.