The Sixth Sense

Italy: Good or Bad for football?

I watched the Italy vs. France game tonight. Potentially both teams could have gone out the tournament if Romania had beaten Holland. But, as it happens, Romania lost and Italy won. 

What is it with Italy? They’re always there or thereabouts when it comes to major football tournaments. They are, of course, the current world cup holders too.

I have a big problem with them though. And this may be my perception, but I can’t get away from these thoughts. They just strike me as really dull. They are uninspiring. They play very safe football. And they sneak wins.

Take tonight for example. They won 2:0 which sounds pretty convincing. But the truth is that one of those goals was a penalty and the other was a lucky deflection. Oh, and they were playing with an extra man for most of the game after France had a player sent off.

Even though they could have gone out tonight, they are through. And I wouldn’t bet against them winning the whole thing. After all, they won the World Cup play dull, unimaginative football.

I think its the way they play so safe which frustrates me. There’s something within me which reviles against that which is safe. When not attempt something more risky? Why not try to create something spectacular rather than sneaking a single goal and then hanging on for the win?

For me, Italy winning the World Cup was bad for football. Do we want the teams or try so little and sneak wins held up as the pinnacle of the sport? I don’t. I love to see adventure.

I think this is relevant for organisations too. Do we want to play it safe and keep things predictable? Or will we attempt something grandeur, even if we don’t ‘win’? I know for me, I’d choose risk over safety any day.

What about you?