You're more optimist than the 99 % of italians
Because World Cups are more about mentality then who actually has the best players. The only two teams who we have an inferiority complex to at the moment is Brazil and Spain. If we reach the knockout rounds and play one of them then it will be a worry. But just like Soain beating us in 08 ended their poor form in international tournaments, hopefully we will reverse it on them.
This squad is also tactically sound and we will be able to match up well against most teams, De Sciglio and Abate need to start when we play counter attacking teams.
The only issue is the heat, but it will be an issue for everyone. Even Brazil couldn't perform in the heat of the final of 94.
The friendly results are always bad, but Prandelli uses what he learns to his advantage. I remember everyone worried before euro 12 when we got smashed by Russia. Tournament started and we outplayed Spain in the first match and got all the way to the final.