Italy v Ghana - Preview

Del Piero stakes claim for Ghana start

Alessandro Del Piero believes his superior fitness levels should earn him a place ahead of Francesco Totti in Italy's starting line-up for their opening Group E World Cup match here against Ghana.

Del Piero, who spent much of last season on the bench for Juventus and has struggled to find his best form in the run-up to the tournament, is competing with the Roma captain for the role of withdrawn striker in Monday's game.

Del Piero stated: "Totti is at 70 per cent? I'm at 100 per cent, but there is no rivalry between us."

Despite suggestions from the Italian media that the pair are not the best of friends, Del Piero stressed there was no animosity between them.

"Let me say I have no dispute with Francesco," said the 30-year-old forward.

"We are both at the disposal of (Italy coach Marcello) Lippi and it is up to him to do what he feels is right for the team."

On Friday, after a warm-up friendly against an under-19 Duisburg side, Totti declared himself ready to play against Ghana.

"I'm already at 70 per cent in terms of fitness and I think I'm at a good level," said the 29-year-old Roman.

"I will be very happy to play from the start against Ghana, but if Lippi decides to do something different, I would have no problem with that."

Lippi is willing to sacrifice flair for three precious points against the four-time African champions.

"It's a hugely important match and all that counts is getting the victory," said the 58-year-old whose side are unbeaten in their last 18 matches and are facing the Black Stars for the very first time.

"A strong start is imperative, although we have to be wary. Ghana are a technical side, full of pace and individual talent, but I have faith in my players."

Utility defender Gianluca Zambrotta and midfield dynamo Gennaro Gattuso have both been ruled out with injuries, but Alessandro Nesta has recovered from a thigh strain and will probably line up in the centre of defence.

Teams

Italy

Gianlugi Buffon, Cristian Zaccardo, Alessandro Nesta, Fabio Cannavaro (capt), Fabio Grosso, Simone Perrotta, Andrea Pirlo, Daniele De Rossi, Francesco Totti, Alberto Gilardino, Luca Toni: Coach: Marcello Lippi

Ghana

Richard Kingston, John Pantsil, Sammy Kuffour, John Mensah, Emmanuel Pappoe, Sulley Muntari, Michael Essien, Stephen Appiah (capt), Eric Addo, Asamoah Gyan, Matthew Amoah: Coach: Ratomir Dujkovic

Referee

Carlos Simon (BRA)