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Clint Dempsey celebrates scoring the only goal of the game. Tanopress/AP/Press Association Images
Shock

No problemo: Prandelli unconcerned after USA defeat

The Azzuri fell to a 1-0 defeat to the United States in Genoa last night, prompting some alarm in the Italian media.

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli says he is not concerned about his side’s Euro 2012 prospects after their shock 1-0 defeat to the United States.

A lone goal from Clint Dempsey saw the US claim their first ever win over Italy, just three months out from the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine.

But Prandelli was generally pleased with his side’s efforts in Genoa on Wednesday and said they were unlucky not to have won.

“It was an undeserved loss, but with this spirit we will have a great European Championship because I was happy with the squad,” Prandelli said.

“Obviously to play every three months is complicated, but I’m convinced that we will have a great Euro 2012.”

“One hundred days from the Euros? I am absolutely not worried.”

The 54-year-old then commented on some of the individual performances, including starter Sebastian Giovinco and debutant Fabio Borini.

“Giovinco? He did good things and was dangerous one-on-one. Borini has determination, personality and a lot more,” he said, singling out the two forwards for praise.

Italy will be one of Ireland’s Group C opponents in Poland this summer and Giovanni Trapattoni will be targeting three points against his native country when the sides meet in the final group game on 18 June.

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