Prandelli: Italy should not underestimate Armenia

Oct 12, 2012 9:40:00 AM

The successful coach believes that Friday's encounter will not be a walkover for the Euro 2012 finalists and has urged his team to remain focused

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has warned his men not to underestimate Armenia in Friday's 2014 World Cup qualifier.

The Azzurri were held to a 2-2 draw by Bulgaria in their last qualification game, and Prandelli has stressed that they cannot afford to make the same mistakes again.

"I am waiting to see an Italy side alive to the fact that the stakes are high. We have to play at a high rhythm against Armenia in order to make the most of our qualities," Prandelli stated at a press conference.

"I'm sure we won't make the same mistakes as we did in September, but against Armenia we have to have commitment, because it will be a hard, physical encounter.

"We must respect the opposition, and play with the intensity the game deserves. Armenia are a developing football nation and shouldn't be underestimated."

Friday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 17:00CET.

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