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After a sensational 1-1 draw at home with the Lithuanian national team, World Cup champion Italian coach Roberto Donadoni stated that his team performed poorly because they were not yet physically prepared enough.
"The only fault lies in physical preparation. We had several great opportunities, but we were unlucky," said the Italian after the match. "We knew that Lithuania would play aggressively and strongly, and they only threatened us with long shots and headers."
In a very strong B group in the selection for the 2008 European Championship, such a start at the end of the cycle for R. Donadoni's players could be fatal, as their next opponents, French footballers, easily crushed Georgia 3-0 away, while the Scots "wiped out" the Faroe Islands team with a score of 6-0.
"Now we need to regain energy and prepare for the next matches," Donadoni said. "These games were not a waste of time. They made us worry."
Returning to the Italian national team after a fifteen-month break, Antonio Cassano was one of the best players on the field, especially in the first half, where he created Italy's only goal.
"Cassano launched several attacks of world-class level, as expected of him. If he maintains this form, he will be unstoppable," the coach praised Real Madrid's forward.
However, the coach seemed most dissatisfied with the team's defense.
"There were several situations where we shouldn't have made mistakes," the Italian said. "But I repeat - it was only due to a lack of physical preparation. The players lack playing experience. The team played well, and I want to praise my players."
