Lippi insists Italy can compete with anyone

Italy coach Marcello Lippi says they're a match for anyone as they prepare to kickoff their Confederations Cup campaign.

“Our average age is 28 and a half, but there is very little difference between us and the other sides,” insisted the Coach.

“I am not worried. I trust these players a great deal and in the next few months we will see some Under-21s step up to the senior squad.

“If I were to enter a season-long competition then I would not pick these players, but if we look at their quality in a tournament lasting 30-40 days, then I doubt there are stronger squads in the world.”

Spain and Brazil are the favourites for the victory in South Africa, but Lippi insists that is not the case.

“Spain have never won the World Cup and only recently got their first European Championship trophy. They took six or seven years to win by bringing up their youngsters.

“Our football is not inferior to Spain and Brazil. There is no gap to make up with them, as we are the World Champions.”