Serie A coaching legend Zdenek Zeman has slammed Marcello Lippi's Italy selection.

Many have complained at the absence of Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano from the Italy side going to South Africa.

"The Azzurri have not had a shot on goal so far from open play and it becomes difficult to win games like that," Zeman told Sky Italia television.

"They have to be more daring. I'd have brought along those who know how to play, like Francesco Totti, Cassano and Balotelli.

"It has been a tight World Cup so far because in the group phase everyone focuses on qualification, so try to destroy the other team's football before creating some of their own.

"Few sides take the initiative or play attacking football. Even those who on paper are clearly superior struggle to make that felt.

"All teams think they can win the World Cup. Seeing as Italy won it four years ago, they have reason to hope."