Italy

Reigning World Champions Italy will not be letting go of the World Cup without a fight.

The memorable 2006 final that saw Zinedine Zidane infamously head butt Marco Materazzi ended with Italy winning on penalties against the French in a closely fought match.

Unbeaten in qualifying, Italy will be looking to improve on an extremely average performance in Euro 2008 and another average tournament in the 2009 Confederation’s Cup.

Gianluigi Buffon the veteran goalkeeper and Fabio Cannavaro will be looking to hold together the usual tough Italian defence while the likes of Pirlo and De Rossi in midfield will be uncompromising.

The only weakness for the Italians appears to be up front, which could cause problems should they ever go behind during the tournament.

Star Man - Andrea Pirlo

At the peak of his powers 'The Metronome' as he is nicknamed is able to control the midfield for AC Milan and Italy almost effortlessly.

His deep lying role in midfield for the Azzuri has seen the side able to adopt a fluid style of football that has seen them win the World Cup.

Pirlo's breath taking performance in the World Cup Final saw him pick up Man of the Match against France. He also earned a place in the team of the tournament and the Bronze Ball.

Coach - Marcello Lippi

Marcello Lippi is one of best coaches in the world and Italy are hoping he can take an aging side all the way to the World Cup Final in Johannesburg just like he did back in 2006 in Germany.

Lippi will be looking to stars like Andrea Pirlo, Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro to lead the side and get to the latter stages of the tournament in South Africa and with his coaching acumen it is entirely possible especially after a promising unbeaten quailfying campaign.

While most Italians are in favour of Lippi, his unwillingness to alter his preferred 4-3-3 formation and drop older underperforming stars could see him face some media pressure if they underachieve in the group stage.

One to Watch - Claudio Marchisio

Juventus midfielder Marchisio will be one to watch if he gets a chance to impress in South Africa. Tenacious in the tackle Marchisio is willing to get stuck in like fellow Azzuri midfielder Daniele De Rossi but also the young star has incredible technique with the ball at his feet.

During Juventus’ tough year in Serie A he was one of the bright spots due to his consistent performances even though he also had several niggling injuries.

Although the majestic Andrea Pirlo will be first choice in midfield it may well be Marchisio who steps up to take his place should injury keep him out of any games.

Odds to win - 12/1

GROUP STAGE FIXTURES