Now the time for stars to shine in Cup play
(AP)
Updated: 2006-07-04 08:26 Totti has not long returned to full match fitness after 2 1/2 months out with
a broken left leg and still has 10 screws and a metal rod holding the bones
together.
"After a lot of hard work, I'm finally back in top form," the AS Roma player
said during the buildup to Tuesday's game against the Germans.
The playmaker, who supports strikers Luca Toni and Alberto Gilardino, was
left on the bench for Italy's second round game against Australia but went on to
score the winner from the penalty spot with the last kick of the game.
"The rest served me well," said Totti, who played only the last 15 minutes of
that game but started the 3-0 quarterfinal victory over Ukraine and provided two
assists.
Although Italy's strength is its tight defense — which has allowed only an
own-goal so far in five games — the Azzuri will want a big game from Totti if
they are to test Jens Lehmann in Germany's goal.
Totti has another reason to reach the final. He was kicked out of Euro 2004
for spitting into an opponent's face.
Zidane, Figo, Ballack and Totti are all targeting the final. Although only
two will get there, soccer will be the overall winner if they stay on top
form.
|
