The Aftermath



Italy heroes set for homecoming

Thousands of people are expected to line the streets of Rome on Monday to welcome home the Italy squad after the World Cup triumph over France.

Prime Minister Romano Prodi will welcome the team at 1830 BST before Marcello Lippi's squad embark on an open-top bus parade through the city.

Their tour will end at Circus Maximus, with a second night of celebrations expected right throughout the country.

Italy beat France 5-3 on penalties to win their fourth World Cup.

However, the jubilant mood may be dampened if the verdicts regarding the Italian football scandal are announced.

I won't be suprised if the verdict has been arranged. Since Italy has won the World Cup, their will be no relegation, all there will be is a heavy fine and 10 points taken off the domestic teams in the league next year.