Holy Giovanni! Italy become the God squad

Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni has been promoting his Catholic faith during this World Cup as much as his belief in 4-4-2.

While many players, particularly from Latin countries, cross themselves before entering the field of play and probably a good number have a quiet prayer in their hotel room before games, Trapattoni has raised eyebrows with his frequent references to his faith.

Throughout his three decades as a coach, 'Trap' has never been one to follow convention and has certainly never been afraid to use colourful, even melodramatic language.

But even seasoned observers of the man who has won more Serie A titles than any other coach, have been a little taken aback by his readiness to praise the Lord.

The first signs that Trapattoni, who has a sister who is a nun, felt faith would have an important role in his World Cup came before the opening Group G game against Ecuador when a catholic mass was held at the team's hotel in Sendai, Japan.

"The Lord has many other things to deal with but I pray that he looks over us as well," said Trapattoni after local priest, Takanohashi Tatsuo, carried out the service attended by, among others, goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and midfielder Damiano Tommasi.

"There is nothing new about this, we are a catholic group," he explained at the time.

Prior to the kick-off of Italy's second game, against Croatia, Trapattoni washed his hands in Holy Water, a supply of which he has kept in a bottle.

Although Italy lost 2-1, the bottle was on the bench again for the final group game against Mexico and after news of Ecuador's win over Croatia, which ensured the Italians a second round place, reached pitchside Trapattoni threw the water over the bench.

His first words after the game revealed it was more than relief at Alessandro Del Piero's 85th minute equaliser that had caused his delight.

"Allow me to use a phrase I often use - justice and God exist, I believe that. When a team creates five or six chances, I reckon that deserves merit, a sack of praise," said the Italy coach.

Asked about the Holy Water he replied: "You know I'm a believer. God has answered my prayers."

Not surprisingly many have been keen to know if fortune will continue to favour the Italians.

"You want to know if I have a lot of it? There is a big bottle," said Trapattoni after Italy arrived at their new base in South Korea.

The Italy coach has asked the media not to mock his belief but said he was not annoyed by the attention paid to the Holy Water.

"It doesn't irritate me because I am a believer. There are others who do not have the character to admit that they have been recalled. If I am able to contribute to increasing the ranks of the faithful, then I will be very happy," said the Italy coach.

The church back home also says people should not mock Trapattoni for his beliefs.

Cardinal Ersilio Tonini said: "It's clearly true faith".