Italian soccer prowess comes in many forms. Their league clubs have won more trophies (and finals appearances) than any league in Europe (no easy feat considering the excellence in England, Spain and Germany and combining five major tournaments - Champions League, UEFA/Europa, Cup Winners Cup, Intercontinental/World Club and Super Cup; not to mention Mitropa a precursor to all major tournaments and a prestigious one in the pre-war era), the Azzurri have won the World Cup four times and reached the finals on six occasions (second only to Brazil with five wins and Germany's seven finals appearances), its players head many all-time great lists from around the world and have won several awards and now its referees have also been recognized.
According to IFFHS, Dr. Pierluigi Collina heads the list of top referees of the last 25 years.
Italians lead all nations with 14 representatives out of 140 referees. England is next with 12.
I'm sure that boob Sepp Blatter is pleased. Inside quip for Azzurri fans.
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