Morace calm about Panico chances

By Paolo Menicucci

Despite concerns about her fitness, Patrizia Panico has been included in Carolina Morace's 20-strong squad for the 2005 UEFA European Women's Championship.

Pivotal opener
The ACF Torino striker has injured her ribs and is a doubt for the Azzurre's opening game against France on 6 June. "The first match is crucial for us," Panico said. "Our tournament will hinge on the game because, on paper, we have a good chance to defeat France and starting the tournament on the right foot would allow us to play in a more composed manner against stronger teams like Germany and Norway."

Trio dropped
Morace has dropped Piera Maglio, Sara D'Alessio and Serena Coppolino from the party that faced Republic of Ireland in Venice earlier this month, and is looking to last season's UEFA EURO 2004™ for inspiration. "We'll try to emulate Greece as the tournament underdogs," she said. "We will need a bit of luck because we're not at the same level of some other teams. Sweden are the favourites, England could do really well in front of their home fans and Germany and Norway will surely be challengers."

Italy squad

Goalkeepers
Carla Brunozzi (US Vigor Senigallia)
Michela Cupido (Aircargo Agliana FC)
Chiara Marchitelli (Atletico Oristano)

Defenders
Gioia Masia (Torres Terra Sarda)
Viviana Schiavi (S.S. Fiammamonza)
Valentina Lanzieri (ACF Torino)
Elena Ficarelli (ASD CF Bardolino VR)
Giulia Perelli (Atletico Oristano)
Elisibetta Tona (Torres Terra Sarda)

Midfielders
Sara Di Filippo (UPC Graphistudio Tavagnacco)
Damiana Deiana (ACF Torino)
Elisa Camporese (Bardolino)
Tatiana Zorri (ACF Torino)
Valentina Boni (ASD CF Bardolino)
Chiara Gazzoli (Torres Terra Sarda)
Pamela Conti (Torres Terra Sarda)

Forwards
Ilaria Pasqui (ASD CF Bardolino)
Patrizia Panico (ACF Torino)
Gabbiadini (ASD CF Bardolino)
Giulia Domenichetti (Torres Terra Sarda)