Key Players: Balotelli, Pirlo, Buffon
Weakness: Wingers/Attacking Midfielders
Long one of the world's best national teams, Italy has seemingly seen a bit of a down period in their history. Their last great generation got older and though they've been relevant, have not nearly reached the heights of their 2004 World Cup win. Despite what wouldn't appear to be a great roster, they still did make it to the final in the last Euros where they handily lost to Spain. Still, it was a pretty good run in which they beat Germany, and there's enough solidity and upside in this team to have a good showing.
Defense is their strong point with top notch, no fuss center backs like Chiellini ahead of the former (and arguably still) unquestioned world's best goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Italy might play a bit slow for your liking, but they're also really hard to score against. The maestro Andrea Pirlo pulls the strings and dictates the tempo of the game from the middle of the pitch with a decent cast around him. Balotelli is their best bet up front-the young striker can be inconsistent, but is capable of scoring incredible goals.
Where they struggle is in the wide and advanced midfield positions. They didn't have anybody quick or skilled on the wing, though El Shaaraway helps change that and is very good in the game. You might struggle a bit to score (unless you can harness Balotelli's skills to maximum effect) but you also shouldn't concede much. Italy probably will go far in the tournament despite what seems like a roster that doesn't shine like other teams, because they seem to raise their level in the games that matter.
Those are my totally unofficial rankings and predictions, but I like to think they're pretty fair and accurate. Chime in with your opinion or go put in your FIFA 14 disc and beat everyone with these teams!
