Scandal has galvanized us, says Italy's Grosso

DUISBURG (AFP) — Italy defender Fabio Grosso believes the Serie A match-fixing scandal has had a galvanizing effect on the World Cup squad.

Many predicted the Italians would struggle to concentrate on the tournament given the events back home, but the Azzurri have made it all the way to the semi-finals where they will meet hosts Germany.

"It wasn't easy for us when the World Cup started," said Grosso at a press conference at Italy's training camp here on Saturday.

"There was intense pressure because there was so much going on around us.

"But out of those difficult circumstances, we found more strength to take on these challenges.

"We're very happy to be among the best four teams in the world, but we don't want to stop now."

Four clubs are accused of match-fixing in the 2004-05 season: Juventus, AC Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio. ...