Former Italy international Alessandro Del Piero believes playing the 2014 FIFA World Cup at home will both benefit and hamper Brazil.
The 39 year-old, who was part of the Azzurri side that won the tournament in 2006 and was also involved in 1998 and 2002, notes that Brazil are favourites, but is unsure whether being hosts is necessarily an advantage.
“The World Cup is a fantastic moment in the career of any footballer and I hope they live the moment to the best they can,” he said to Sky Sport Italia, as reported by Football Italia.
“Obviously you have to mention Brazil as favourites, though they will play a role of both favourites and underdogs. Playing at home gives you a big advantage but it is also a heavy burden.”
The Conegliano native also outlined his dream final – Italy vs. Brazil.
“Everyone’s dream is an Italy-Brazil final, but for good luck I won’t say anything,” he continued. “I will just wish them very good luck.”
Del Piero is currently without a club after leaving Sydney FC. The forward, who was capped 93 times by Italy and won 18 major honours across 19 seasons at Juventus, is believed to have received enquiries from clubs in Japan and the United States.
