The strongest opponent but also the most stimulating to face. Tomorrow in Manila (starting at 14.40) Italy will try to overturn the odds and defeat the USA selection, favorites to win the World Cup in the Philippines. Whoever wins will play the semi-final against the winner between Germany and Latvia.

In the 14 matches played so far, the Azzurri have won only twice: in 1970 for 66-64 with Recalcati on the field (today on the staff of coach Pozzecco) and in 1978 in Manila for 81-80. Those were also the only two editions of the World Cup where Italy achieved the best finish: fourth place.

On paper there is no comparison: Steve Kerr's USA average 104 points and rotate 12 players. The best scorer is guard Anthony Edwards who has 20 points per game (35 in the defeat against Lithuania) but also watch out for winger Paolo Banchero, chased in vain by the national team for two years.

For Datome and his companions an almost impossible challenge, but mental lightness could help Italy to play a great match.