The Opposition Speaks

Italy coach Marcello Lippi

How the Czech Republic fare will depend greatly on whether (Jan) Koller recovers. He makes space in which his team-mates can attack. Without him they’ll have to rely on speed.

USA coach Bruce Arena

“Are we ready yet to win a World Cup? I don’t think so, but I think we’re ready to compete with the best countries in the world. We’ve demonstrated that,” the U.S. coach said Wednesday. “My expectations are very similar to 2002. Our goals are to advance. If we can do that, and get to the round of 16, anything can happen.”