ISP Exclusive Interview with Claudio Pizzaro

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: This past season you have had the opportunity to play with Iranian national team member Ali Karimi. What is your impression of him so far?

Claudio Pizzaro: Karimi is very technically skilled with great vision. He plays very well.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: You have had the chance to play with all three Iranians at Bayern. Which of them is the most efficient?

Claudio Pizzaro: All three are strong players, but Ali Karimi is a midfielder and I currently use his skills to play my position. I think his technical skills are stronger and that he has a clever playing style.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: The World Cup starts in just over a week, which team is your favorite?

Claudio Pizzaro: It is very difficult to predict. Brazil, Argentina, England and the host, Germany, will play an important role in the World Cup.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: Do you think there are some underdogs that may surprise us in the World Cup?

Claudio Pizzaro: Ivory Coast has the potential to get far. Overall, I believe it will be difficult for small teams to win matches and advance.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: In the past, you played against teams like Mexico. What do you think about their playing style?

Claudio Pizzaro: Mexico has participated in three or four World Cups in the last twenty years so they are an experienced side that can get far in the World Cup.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: How do you see Iran’s chances in the World Cup this year? Do you think they can advance?

Claudio Pizzaro: I have not seen any of Iran’s national games but I do know some of their players such as Karimi, Hashemian and Daei and we can’t forget Mahdavikia. With their skills, Iran has the potential to win crucial matches at the World Cup. It is very difficult to predict in the end but I wish them luck.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: Before the start of the Bundesliga season, you had the opportunity to pay against Iranian club side Perspolis. You have now played against the New York / New Jersey Red Bulls. Which team do you believe plays better football?

Claudio Pizzaro: I think Iranian players play better football as they are not very physical. The Iranians kept the ball on the ground and passed the ball more than the Red Bulls. I think the Iranians are overall better footballers.

IRANSPORTSPRESS.COM: Thank you for the interview.

Claudio Pizzaro: No problem at all!