Buffon: Italy feel ‘people’s scepticism’ but players can handle pressure
Italy’s Delegation Chief Gigi Buffon admits the Azzurri feel ‘people’s scepticism’ but is confident that players are ‘used to handling every kind of pressure.’
Italy begin preparations for the 2026 World Cup play-off in Coverciano today.
Buffon: Italy must respect Northern Ireland
Gennaro Gattuso’s men will face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on March 26, and if they progress to the final, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Buffon spoke to Domenica Sportiva on Sunday night: “Now it’s the moment of the verdict. These 120 days have been an ordeal, but they have also helped bring something extra, a deep spirit and understanding that will be needed,” he said via TMW.
Italy have not qualified for the last two editions of the World Cup and have not played a knockout game in the tournament since 2006 when they went on to lift the trophy.
“It’s true, we can feel people’s scepticism, but I’m convinced that even the harshest critics will support Italy when the whistle blows,” Buffon said.
“Right now, above all, we need to send ourselves a message to make them change their minds.
“They are all very solid guys, used to handling every kind of pressure. The magic that the Italian national team can create goes beyond the current difficulties.
“We must respect Northern Ireland, but I also believe that our team giving 100% will be enough to reach the Final. The players must be aware of their qualities,” Buffon concluded.
Alessandro Bastoni, Gianluca Mancini and Gianluca Scamacca will be assessed by Italian doctors today, while Federico Chiesa has already pulled out of the team as he was “deemed unavailable for the next two matches.”
The Liverpool winger has not played for Italy for almost two years, making his last international appearance in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 against Switzerland.