Marcello Lippi released a statement on his “perhaps a bit strong” rant against the fans, “but I could not stay silent.”
The Italy Coach was livid after the Stadio Tardini crowd hurled abuse at the squad during their match with Cyprus, which saw the team fight back from 2-0 down to win 3-2.
“I let off steam and perhaps it was a bit strong but, knowing my lads and how much enthusiasm, passion and hunger they put into every performance, I could not stay silent,” read the statement on the Federation website.
“I got angry and reacted, but that is my way of protecting the team. The criticism and jeers have always existed, even for those who preceded me on the Nazionale bench and had to face these situations, but I maintain it is the duty of a Coach to point out certain things.”
The Azzurri had already qualified top of their group for the 2010 World Cup and Lippi fielded an all-new line-up.
“It was logical that, having changed the entire starting XI and already achieving qualification in Dublin, we would run into a few difficulties,” he continued.
“But I did not expect those jeers after 10 minutes for the reigning world champions, a team that is doing its duty.”
The tactician then turned his attention to the tournament in South Africa next summer, having emerged unbeaten in qualifying with seven wins and three draws.
“In these months we worked hard, alternating good games with less impressive ones, but we never lost and even qualified a round early.
“We went through negative moments, I won’t deny that, such as in the Confederations Cup, but they were decisive in creating the group and the squad of the future.
“Among the more positive notes are the introduction of young players like [Domenico] Criscito, [Davide] Santon, [Federico] Marchetti, [Giuseppe] Rossi and [Salvatore] Bocchetti, who immediately understood the spirit of the side and settled in without problems.
“These lads have good technique and character, while others could well arrive too.”
Lippi had a two-year hiatus from the Italy bench, but recognises the same signs from before the 2006 triumph.
“The level we reached today at the end of qualifying is more or less where we were four years ago. Now, we face challenges of a certain level [a friendly against Holland on November 14] to see what we’re made of.
“A team that wants to complete a journey like this needs to have characteristics I consider essential: heart, grit and character.
“These are the qualities Italy had when winning the World Cup in Germany and that is what my Italy will bring to South Africa.”
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