World Cup

Abete: Italian WCQ's Important; Amauri Still Has A Chance

The president of the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio has signalled the objectives for 2009 as he eyes World Cup qualification...

12 Jan 2009 10:20:15

Photo Gallery

Zoom

Giancarlo Abete

Teams

Players

Carvalho de Oliveira Amauri

Italian FA president (FIGC) Giancarlo Abete is keen on World Cup qualification and he has still offered Amauri hope regarding a future with the Azzurri.

Italy are on course to qualify for the 2010 tournament. They play Brazil in a friendly in February before resuming qualification action with Montenegro and Ireland in the spring.

Abete insists qualifying for South Africa is paramount as he lays down La Nazionale's objectives for 2009.

"We started the World Cup qualification campaign really well. The Confederations Cup is significant, but we have two decisive games against Montenegro and Ireland.

"Those matches are more important than the friendly with Brazil."

Amauri's Italian future is looking uncertain after problems with his passport request have delayed the process.

Nevertheless, Abete believes the Juventus man still has a chance.

"First, Amauri has to regulate his standings with the Italian state and then it will be his own free choice," added the chief. "Only players with strong motivations need apply to the national team."

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com