MADRID, Apr 24 (Reuters) Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano is worried about his chances of making the Italy squad for the World Cup finals in Germany.

''I haven't lost hope but I think it is going to be very difficult,'' Cassano told reporters after yesterday's 2-1 win over Malaga in the Bernabeu.

''I am not playing very much with my club and usually it is only those who are playing regularly who go.'' The 23-year-old was given a rare start with Ronaldo out injured on Sunday, but was guilty of squandering some of his side's best chances as they laboured to overhaul a 1-0 deficit against the Primera Liga's bottom club.

It was only after he was withdrawn in the second half that Zinedine Zidane and Sergio Ramos scrambled a last minute win.

''I had some good chances today but luck wasn't with me. I played an hour and need to continue playing. I am convinced I will improve,'' he added.

Cassano joined Real from AS Roma at the beginning of January for a fee of 5.5 million euros (.64 million).

Real are third in the league two points behind second-placed Valencia and 10 behind Barcelona who have a game in hand.

REUTERS PM VC1800