Del Piero National hero

June 14, 2002
Juventus Official Site

At a certain point, a few Juventus fans must have thought of curse against the Juve players who are involved in this World Cup in Japan and Korea. Immediately sent home, during the first round, Trezeguet and Thuram with France, Montero, Carini and Co. with Uruguay. Even Italy risked the same destiny.

From Borgetti's goal till Ecuador's goal against Croatia, the Italian National team was virtually out of the competition. Who broke the curse was today's Juventus's symbol: Alessandro Del Piero. Put in at the 32' of the second half for Totti, Alex resolved all of the problems scoring (40') the definitive equaliser, with a header, as a real striker, anticipating the Mexican defence.

For a moment, Del Piero relived those wonderful sensations of a Japanese evening of six years ago. In Tokyo, on the 26th of November, thanks to him, Juventus reached the top of the world by winning the intercontinental Cup. This one against Mexico, his 18th with Italy, maybe doesn't have the same importance. Or rather, it will be the final assessment of this Italian expedition to give it the right importance.

What was immediately clear though is that Del Piero hasn't lost his desire to be important. And from this moment is ready for a great World Cup final. Alike Zambrotta, also today positive, especially for determination and presence, called to give the team a good equilibrium as in this occasion a more offensive set-up was chosen. As for Buffon, unlucky today, as he was beaten thanks to the only shot on goal by the Mexicans. Iuliano is always waiting for a deserved chance to give his contribution.

Now the Italian expedition will move to Korea where on Tuesday will play the next round. Against South Korea, Portugal or United States will be known tomorrow. When they arrive, Trapattoni's team will discover the warmth of the Koreans just like the Japanese. With the hope to go back and play in Japan, for the Final scheduled on the 30th of June in Yokohama. And who knows if Del Piero will have another reason to love Japan and all of its people for whom he already is a hero.
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