Time of reckoning for Italy

Union Jack in Napoli, originally uploaded by romeoergatto.

Whereas many of the other teams have been playing out theri last group game without too much worry, this afternoon, Italy really have to win if they are going to be sure of getting through to the last sixteen. They could do it with a draw, but only if Ghana do not win.

I hear that half of Rome was supporting England the other night, in their match against Sweden, my friend Angelo being offered pizza in his car by neighbours as he sat there listening to the match on the radio, thereby avoiding paying-to-view to Berlusconi.

I imagine half, if not most of Naples will be supporting Argentina, with all the history betwen F.C. Napoli and the greatest Argentinian player, Maradona. It could conceivably be those two teams meeting in the final, if only .... they each win all their next games. Easier said than done!