Pipitone inspired after World Cup dream

Pipitone announced her international retirement last month, after achieving her life-long ambition - as she was called up by Italy for the Women’s World Cup in France this summer.

Italy went on to reach the quarter-finals of the competition, an achievement that left a lasting impression on the goalkeeper.

“The World Cup experience gave me so much – it was the realisation of a dream,” Pipitone told Roma TV.

“I was part of a great group, with so many great people, and together we experienced something amazing. It left me with the realisation that in life, even when there are struggles, amazing things can happen. It tought me never to give up and never say never – to anything.”

On returning to Roma action, she added: “It’s my second year with Roma and the aims are very high. That’s part of the reason I decided to leave the national team, so I can focus my efforts on Roma and help us to do as well as possible and win something.”

Pipitone goes into her second season as the club’s No. 1 – although she is likely to be put under consistent pressure for her starting spot by one of the club’s summer arrivals, Camelia Ceasar.

Pipitone already has high praise for the Romania-born shot-stopper.

“The new players have all come in and settled well, they immediately became part of the group,” Pipitone noted.

“I always think it is key that the group is united, and the players that have arrived are all of great class and experience.

“Camelia has really impressed me. As a person she is amazing, kind and selfless. As a player, I think one day she can become one of the best goalkeepers in Italy.”

With a final tune-up friendly against Paris Saint-Germain finishing in a 2-2 draw last weekend, the season starts in earnest on Sunday – as AC Milan visit Tre Fontane.

“At home, at Stadio Tre Fontane in front of the Giallorosse fans, we always feel the passion – they are a strength and a help for us out on the pitch,” she said.

“The game against PSG was a vital test for us to make sure we can start the season on the right foot. Games like that help you to grow so much; you can identify weak points and also get a better understanding of your overall strengths.

“Finally, on Sunday, we will start the season – we are excited to start the adventure. Milan have changed a lot, but they have a clear identity and top players.

“I am expecting a very tough game, it’s the first of the season so there is an element of the unknown. Valentina Giacinti is a great forward, we need to try and limit her threat and avoid giving her too much space inside the box.”