Another permanent problem they faced was the misfire of their star player, especially strikers. Italian team always had stars in their team like Vierri, Totti, Del Pierro and Toni but they never managed to sparkle in the world cup arena. Schillaci was a great Italian striker who was awarded with the Golden Boot in 1990 but he did not have a star stature before that world cup finals.

FIFA World Cup Germany, 2006 - Italy enters the Mecca de football with disturbing controversies at backdrop. With a wonderful 4-0 victory over the Germans in the practice match, Italians lit a hope in the hearts of their fans. There was something different with the way they were playing. They did not seem to be satisfied with a single goal lead. They were looking for more. All the credit to coach Marcello Lippi. Once again their stars did not kindle their victory but their mid fielders and wings were doing the trick. Players like Matarazzi, Zambrotta, Perota, Grosso, Gattuso, Pirlo all made their own mark at the world stage. During the whole series, ten of the Italian players had scored goals - more than any other team. But the man behind the Italian triumph was their venerable captain and world class defender Cannavaro. His perfectly timed tackles and important clearances hindered their oppositions. And finally the Goalie... Commentators were constantly repeating that Buffon was the most expensive Goalkeeper in the world but hesitated just a bit to say that he was the best. After his superb performance in this world cup, there is no doubt that he is the best of the best.