Fabio Cannavaro, Buffon's ex Parma teammate and now Juventus partner, is another shining star in the Azzuri. Lifting high the World Cup on 9 July 2006 as the Italy's captain was his most glorious moment in the Germany's summer. He was then selected as the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2006, which is the most precious personal award that he has ever received during his carrier life. There is no doubt that he is a very strong and stable centre-back both in the club and national team.

However, Juventus only got a 7th place in the 2009-2010 season, which is the most disappointing result after The Old Lady was back from Serie B. Buffon has done all his best, but he cannot save all the balls by himself. In addition due to the injuries, he was forced to be absent from the football field for a month. Cannavaro still played hard, but 4 years have passed since he shouted in great delight lifting the cup. 3 months later He will reach 37 years old, which is usually no longer a golden age for a football player, especially for a centre back.

Along with Buffon and Cannavaro, Zambrotta, Camoranesi, De Rossi, Gattuso, Pirlo, Gilardino and Iaquinta were all Materazzi' s old teammates who now have their chance to get to South Africa. Except Gilardino and De Rossi, all these Italian heroes for winning the 2006 World Cup are above 30 years old.

Experience, gained from match after match, is very important. However with aging maintain a good state would become more and more difficult. Zambrotta's sharp assist has gone. Pirlo's accurate pass has gone. Gattuso's intercept in midfield is not as powerful and efficient as before.

Camoranesi hurt his left knee before Lippi announced the final 23-men list. Fortunately he was still called up by Lippi, perhaps thanks to his impressive performance during 2006 which was too unforgettable to the head coach. Doctor said that Camoranesi could be back in time before South Afrcia Finals begin. But who could guarantee that Camoranesi could return to his peak after almost one season's gloom?