Calafiori: Italy can take on anyone if we reach the World Cup

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori says he is fired up ahead of next Thursday’s semi-final against Northern Ireland in Bergamo and has a huge desire to go to the World Cup. "How do I feel about the play-offs? Positive. We’re fired up and have a huge desire to go to the World Cup," he said, adding he "can’t wait to get to Coverciano to spend plenty of time with my teammates." Calafiori insisted Italy have the pedigree to challenge anyone if they come together as a unit.

"Our history shows us that, if we can pull together as a team, we can take on anyone. Even in America: if we get there, anything could happen." Addressing concerns, he was brisk: "Fear? If we play the way we know how, we’ll make it to the World Cup. On paper, we’re the better side; we just need to believe in ourselves." He acknowledged "a bit of negativity around," but said the national team and the fans "will all pull in the same direction.

Italy, Bergamo

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