Azzuri urged to cement qualification in Dublin

Italy football federation president Giancarlo Abete is hoping his national team can this weekend confirm their place at next year’s World Cup finals.

The Azzurri go into Saturday’s match against Ireland in Dublin four points clear at the top of qualifying Group Eight.

The world champions need just a point away to second-placed Ireland to bag a place in South Africa.

“A positive result in Dublin would ensure qualification and would give the team confidence,” Abete told Italian television station Rai.

The manner of Italy’s six victories and two draws in their eight games has led to criticism in the media and from the fans.

But the unimpressive performances are no cause for concern for Abete just yet.

“Results are crucial,” he said.

“Of course, it is nice to see good football too.

“But at this time, our priority is to get a result – and now we only have to think about qualifying.”

Should the Azzurri lose in Dublin, Marcello Lippi’s side would still have a chance to make amends – because they host Cyprus in their final qualifying game in Parma on October 14.

However, Abete has urged the Azzurri to finish the job in Ireland.

“It is better to arrive at the final match without any uncertainty,” he said.

“We have to arrive at the game against Cyprus with qualification already in our pockets.

“We want to go to South Africa to honour the title as defending champions.”