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At the moment, Andrea Pirlo, representing the Italian national team in the Confederations Cup, mentioned that the tournament hosts, Brazilians, dubbed him "Pirlinho" as a nickname.
In the match against Mexico on Sunday, which "Azzurri" won with a score of 2-1, the star of Turin's "Juventus" played symbolic 100th match for the national team and scored a beautiful goal.
"I was able to mark the limit of 100 matches played for the national team with a goal at the 'Maracana' stadium. It was an unforgettable feeling - like the fulfillment of a childhood dream," - said the 34-year-old footballer after the game.
"I scored the goal after my usual penalty kick. The goalkeeper tried to reach the ball, but apparently realized it was impossible and gave up. I am happy that I contributed to the victory and pleased the fans."
"To be honest, I could have scored more goals. I shot one ball past the opponents' wall, but accidentally my teammate blocked it. After another attempt, the ball flew past the goal. Well, nothing can be done," - reflected A. Pirlo.
"Playing in such heat is really not easy, but the first match of the tournament is always crucial and gives more confidence in further battles. This time we tried a slightly different game plan, where Riccardo Montolivo ("Milan" midfielder) maneuvered between the midfielders and defenders. The plan did not disappoint, but we know that we have enough time to improve our game."
The spectators gathered at the 'Maracana' stadium began chanting A. Pirlo's name when he stepped up to take the penalty at the end of the match. When asked if for a second he felt like a Brazilian, the midfielder replied: "I don't know. I am Italian and I was lucky to be born and play in Italy."
"Comparisons with Brazilian champions always please me. They even gave me the nickname 'Pirlinho'," - smiled the veteran who won Italy's gold for the second consecutive season last year.
"In this match, my pass to Ignazio Abate ("Milan" defender) stuck the most, after which Mario Balotelli ("Milan" forward) almost scored a goal by a hair's breadth. I feel that I am an important cog in the teams I represent, but I never called myself a world-class player or champion."
The conductor of the attacks of the "Juventus" team had previously announced that he would retire from the national team after the 2014 World Cup, which will also take place in Brazil.
"I sweat in training and promote a full life. My enthusiasm overflows. Without a doubt, I want to participate in the upcoming World Cup," - reassured A. Pirlo.
Italy will play their next match in Group A against the Japanese national team on June 20, which surrendered to the hosts Brazil with a score of 3-0.
