Italy coach Lippi pleased with his rookies after friendly win

Italy coach Marcello Lippi was delighted with his rookies after their 1-0 defeat of Sweden.

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini earned the winner on the night.

“It was a satisfying game with attacks from both sides,” Lippi told RAI television.

“The lads, even if it was a completely new squad, didn't suffer too much with all the changes. They played with determination, desire and enthusiasm.”

None of the 2006 winners were in the starting XI, though Mauro Camoranesi did come on as a late substitute.

Davide Biondini received his full debut, while Daniele Galloppa, Mattia Cassani and Christian Maggio were relatively new faces.

“The spirit that has always lived in the Italy squad remains. Now we need to complete this squad and require help from everyone.

“We'll now have to wait and see who we will come up against in the World Cup.”