Italy legend Fabio Cannavaro previews the World Cup in Brazil
What’s On speaks with World Cup winning captain Fabio Cannaavaro to preview the World Cup. It’s part of our guide to watching the World Cup in Dubai.
The Italian defender lifted the World Cup for Italy in 2006, the highlight of an international career that saw him play an incredible 136 times for the Azzurri. Now 40, Fabio predicts what will happen in Brazil…
Who’s going to win the World Cup? Well, ideally Italy! Because if we win for the third time we can take the World Cup home with us.
Who’s going to be the star man of the tournament: Messi or Ronaldo? Or somebody else? The Italian striker Mario Balotelli – because it would mean he led us to victory.
Which team will be the surprise package? I think Switzerland or Belgium could really surprise us. They are both strong teams.
Which of the big teams is going to flop? It’s very difficult to say right now. Hopefully not Italy.
Who’s going to win the Golden Boot? Messi, Ronaldo or Balotelli.
How do you think your home country will do? Realistically, to finish in the top four would be a great result.
How far do you think the hosts Brazil will go? They’re a terrific team, playing at home. They’re among the biggest favourites to win.
What kind of tournament do you predict this time? I think this World Cup will be very challenging, mainly due to the long distances the players will have to travel. Recovering energies between matches is going to be tough.
We think we know the answer to this one, but what is your favourite World Cup memory as a player? Well, in 2006 I had the honour of lifting the World Cup.
And as a spectator? As a spectator, I’d have to say the 1982 World Cup in Spain when Italy won the trophy.