ITALY

There are two religions in Italy.

The Roman Catholic Church and soccer .

Italy are 4 time World Champions and plays host to what is often referred to as the greatest domestic league in the world, the Serie A. The fans are passionate, the players brilliant and soccer is probably the most talked about subject in the country.

Italy's players some of the most celebrated in the history of the game. The artistry of players like Paulo Rossi, Dino Zoff and Roberto Baggio set the stage for stars of today which include Allesandro Del Piero, Fransico Totti and Paulo Maldini. Employing what is referred to as "the Chain" Italy always brings a blanket defense that will frustrate its opponents. The Serie A teams such as Juventus, AS Roma, Inter Milan and AC Milan has drawn great players from all over the world such as Michel Platini and Diego Maradona and Zinedine Zidane. Today it continues plays host to a number of foreign stars like Andrei Schevchenko and David Trezeguet. To play in Italy's Serie A is a great honor indeed.

Paulo Rossi became a hero
in Italy when he scored 4 goals
to carry Italy to its 3rd World Cup.
(Worldcuparchive.com)

Possibly the greatest defender of
his generation: Paulo Maldini of AC Milan
(euro200.org)