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Confederations Cup | Groups

Jun 19, 2013 at 11pm UK

Italy
4-3
Japan Japan

De Rossi, Uchida, Balotelli, Giovinco

Honda, Kagawa, Okazaki

Daniel De Rossi wary of Shinji Kagawa threat

By Paul Gorst, Reporter

Published: June 19 2013 | 05:50

Last updated: June 20 2013 | 08:06

Italy's defensive midfielder Daniele De Rossi identifies Japan playmaker Shinji Kagawa as their side's main threat, ahead of their Confederations Cup clash this evening.

Italy's Daniele De Rossi believes that Shinji Kagawa will be the biggest threat to his team when they play Japan in the Confederations Cup tonight.

The Italians are looking to build on their opening 2-1 win against Mexico on Sunday.

However, the Roma midfielder feels that Manchester United playmaker Kagawa must be contained if they are to get a result in Recife this evening.

"I know three or four of the Japanese players," De Rossi told reporters.

"The one people talk about the most is Kagawa, so I believe him to be the star, even if they have many good players and great tactical organisation that allows them to be dangerous.

"Let's just say nobody is ever certain of their place in the national side. There are so many talented youngsters coming out, but I believe in my potential and my ability to regenerate in these competitions. There were times when I considered this possibility, but never in a panicked way."

Azzurri coach Cesare Prandelli has admitted that he plans to ring the changes for tonight's match.