A few words concerning the Italian football team & the lessons one can draw from their victories:
1. Violence as central defensive characteristic. Smash opponents in the face. Constantly mow them down whilst they run. Kick, lunge, and get in the way. Do NOT play the ball. A few yellow and red cards are acceptable. Utilize all body parts including the tongue.
2. If in doubt, fall down. If it seems that opposing players are getting the upper hand, foul them or simply fall down. Many a game can even be won this way (vs. Australia, etc.). In any case, constant disruptions to game flow will ensure that you can break the opposing team's spirit. The "super experts" will even congratulate this type of behaviour.
3. Taunt and pinch opposing players as often as possible. Opposing players seem to take great offense at being rubbed, tweaked, pinched, kicked, bitten, etc. Therefore, do it as often as possible. Some opponents will even crack. The great Zidane was only the icing on the cake.
4. If in doubt, mobilize the Italian press to help. Yes, Germany had the 12th man. But Italy had much more. They used their exceptional skills to manipulate officials, searched for ways to generate red cards off the field, and even mobilized domestic resources to pressure fifa and manufacture a victory.
Italy a great side? Yes they are. They are so much more than just a football team. They KNOW how to win. Just look at how the Italian league operates. Their national team is just a reflection of this ethos.
Congratulations, Italy. I like your twisted way of playing football.