Italian Head Coach Mazzon Spoke About World Cup Hopes Before the Belgium Match

The Italian head coach answered the questions of the press members after the last training of the star and crescent team at the Max-Schmeling Sports Hall before the match with Belgium.

Stating that they came to the World Cup with a big dream, Mazzon said, "When you have big expectations in life, sometimes you can be disappointed because you cannot realize them. However, we have a big dream. We do not have big expectations, but we have a big dream. We want to try everything we can. Of course, we know that we have a lot of injuries and many of our players are missing. Despite this, we want to fight and push our luck to the end. We want to show people that we will do everything we have and try until the end." he said.

Stating that they feel the excitement of competing in a big organization, the Italian coach said, "Our experienced players seem quite calm. I think some players are more impressed by this atmosphere. It is a really nice and special feeling to be here and see your name in the World Cup. However, as soon as the jump ball is made and the match starts, we are all at the same point. Our players will be ready for it, too." he said.

Sharing her views on some players not being able to take part in the squad due to their injuries, Andrea Mazzon said, "Of course, we feel bad because we have some players who deserve to be here. Like Ceren, Berfin and of course Alperi. They deserved to be here, but there is nothing you can do when such injuries occur. Of course, we are a little lacking in ball direction. We do not have many players who can direct the ball, but I think everyone can contribute in this regard. Our players, who are not normally used to playing by holding the ball in their hands like a playmaker, also need to help us. This is a situation for them too. opportunity. Maybe they will discover a different feature in themselves, maybe they will be able to reveal a better side of their game." made his assessment.

"We believe we have a chance"

The Italian head coach emphasized that although they are in a difficult group in the 2026 World Cup, they will do their best to advance to the second round.

Stating that they are very happy to take part in the tournament, Mazzon said, "We are aware that we are in a difficult group. Realistically, we are in a difficult group with strong teams such as Belgium and Australia. Despite this, we believe that we have a chance to advance to the second round. We will do everything we can to advance to the second round." He concluded his words by saying.