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The draws for the Elite round of the UEFA Under 19's and Under 17's European Championships were made in Cannes this week.
Both Azzurrini age groups are looking to qualify for next years tournaments but they have been handed tough groups.
Italy's Under 19 side, coached by Francesco Rocca, topped Group 13 of the qualification section with wins over Montenegro (3-1), Malta (2-0) and Croatia (3-1) earlier this month.
The 2003 winners have now been drawn with 2005 champions France in the Elite round, along with Sweden and Switzerland in Group 6.
Spain are the current champions at this level - and have won it in the last two editions.
The winners of each of the seven Elite round sections, which will be completed by 30 May 2008, will join hosts the Czech Republic in the final tournament, which will be held from 14 to 26 July 2008.
The Azzurrini's Under 17 group, who have won the tournament only one in 1982, also qualified with ease with wins over Armenia (2-1), Cyprus (7-1) and Czech Republic (2-1) in qualification Group 13 in October.
Luca Gotti's young side now face holders Spain in Group 6 of the Elite round, along with Austria and Romania.
The Under 17's Elite round will be completed by the end of March 2008, with the seven winning teams from each section progressing to the final draw. The final tournament will be held in Turkey, between 4 and 16 May 2008.
[UEFA Under 19] - [UEFA Under 17]
World champions Italy have been drawn with Bulgaria, Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia and Montenegro in the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Azzurri were one of the nine seeds in the European draw for the qualifying round that was performed this afternoon in Durban, South Africa.
They were assigned to Group 8 and avoided some of the potential big guns, such as England and Scotland, who were not seeded.
Instead their toughest opponents would appear to be Bulgaria and Ireland, neither of them qualified for Euro 2008.
Georgia were also in their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign and were beaten home and away, while Montenegro and Cyprus are not expected to cause too many problems.
There are nine European groups in total with the group winners all qualifying automatically. The best eight runners-up enter the two-legged play-offs for the final four spots.
Although they won the trophy in Germany last year, the Azzurri must still go through the qualifying process.
Only hosts South Africa are guaranteed a place in the finals, leaving all the other countries around the world fighting for the remaining 31 spots.
Qualifying in Europe starts after the UEFA Euro 2008 finals in September 2008.
Full European draw
[Group 1] Portugal, Sweden, Denmark, Hungary, Albania, Malta.
[Group 2] Greece, Israel, Switzerland, Moldova, Latvia, Luxembourg.
[Group 3] Czech Republic, Poland, Northern Ireland, Slovakia, Slovenia, San Marino.
[Group 4] Germany, Russia, Finland, Wales, Azerbaijan, Liechtenstein.
[Group 5] Spain, Turkey, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Armenia, Estonia.
[Group 6] Croatia, England, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Andorra.
[Group 7] France, Romania, Serbia, Lithuania, Austria, Faroe Islands.
[Group 8] Italy, Bulgaria, Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia, Montenegro.
[Group 9] Netherlands, Scotland, Norway, Macedonia, Iceland.
[Azzurri reaction]
Source: C4 Football Italia / FIFA
Holders Italy are confirmed as one of the nine European seeds in the 2010 World Cup draw to be held on Sunday.
The wins against Scotland and the Faroe Islands has seen them remain in 3rd place in the latest FIFA World Rankings - only behind the South American duo of Argentina and Brazil.
This means the Azzurri are amongst the top nine European countries in the draw with Spain, Germany, Czech Republic, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Croatia and Greece.
But the World champions could face Scotland again, or England, as they are both placed in Pot 2 for the draw.
[Latest FIFA World Rankings]
The ceremony in South Africa will commence with the Asian zone, followed by CONCACAF, Europe and finally Africa. Exempt from the draw are South America, whose qualifiers are already underway in a home-and-away league format, and Oceania, whose preliminary competition began with the South Pacific Games in August.
The 53 European nations will be divided into eight groups of six teams each and one group of five. The nine group winners will directly enter the 2010 World Cup finals, while the eight second-placed sides do battle in play-offs to whittle down the total 13 European entries.
SEEDS FOR EUROPEAN DRAW:
[Pot 1] Italy, Spain, Germany, Czech Republic, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Croatia, Greece.
[Pot 2] England, Romania, Scotland, Turkey, Bulgaria, Russia, Poland, Sweden, Israel.
[Pot 3] Norway, Ukraine, Serbia, Denmark, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Finland, Switzerland, Belgium.
[Pot 4] Slovakia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Hungary, Moldova, Wales, Macedonia, Belarus, Lithuania, Cyprus.
[Pot 5] Georgia, Albania, Slovenia, Latvia, Iceland, Armenia, Austria, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan.
[Pot 6] Liechtenstein, Estonia, Malta, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Andorra, Faroe Islands, San Marino.
Draw takes place on Sunday 25 November at 1500 (UK Time) in Durban, South Africa.
Source: FIFA
World champions Italy remain third in November's FIFA World Rankings, but they have closed the gap on leaders Argentina and second-placed Brazil.
Argentina's first defeat in their South American World Cup qualifying has allowed Brazil and Italy to close the gap at the top of the latest rankings, although the Albiceleste will take their slender advantage with them into the new year.
The Azzurri, who beat Scotland and the Faroe Islands this week to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2008 finals, are still top of the table of European nations meaning they will be amongst the top nine seeds for the qualifying section for the 2010 World Cup.
[World Cup 2010 Draw: European Seeds]
The latest table shows significant changes among the pursuing pack: Spain (4th, up 2) have opened a sizeable gap on the rest of the top ten, the Czech Republic (6th, up 3) have powered ahead after winning their Euro 2008 qualifying group, and resurgent European champions Greece (11th, up 3) are once again knocking at the top ten door.
The next ranking will be published on 17 December 2007.
World Top 10 (November 2007):
[1] Argentina, 1523 points
[2] Brazil, 1502
[3] Italy, 1498
[4] Spain, 1349
[5] Germany, 1296
[6] Czech Republic, 1290
[7] France, 1243
[8] Portugal, 1241
[9] Netherlands, 1170
[10] Croatia, 1129
[Full Rankings]
Source: FIFA
The line-up for the UEFA Euro 2008 finals was completed last night and Italy now await the draw in Lucerne on 2 December.
The World champions will be drawn from Pot 2 as the Netherlands join hosts Austria and Switzerland and holders Greece in the top pot of seeds.
Croatia’s win over England sees them join the Azzurri in Pot 2 along with Sweden and the Czech Republic.
The pots have been filled by nations in order of their coefficient points - based on the results of the qualifying competition for Euro 2008 and the 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Germany, Spain and Portugal are in Pot 3 alog with Romania, and France are somewhat surprisingly in Pot 4 with Poland, Turkey and Russia.
This leaves a possible worst-case draw for Roberto Donadoni's side, which could see the Azzurri face the Netherlands, Germany/Spain/Portugal and France.
Host nations Switzerland and Austria are already allocated into positions A1 and B1 respectively. The draw will begin with the placement of the other top two seeds in positions C1 and D1. The draw will then continue with Pot 4, Pot 3 and ends with Pot 2.
The seeding in full (Coefficient):
[Pot 1] Switzerland (1.800), Austria (1.500), Greece (2.167), Netherlands (2.417).
[Pot 2] Croatia (2.409), Italy (2.364), Czech Republic (2.333), Sweden (2.273).
[Pot 3] Romania (2.250), Germany (2.250), Portugal (2.192), Spain (2.182).
[Pot 4] Poland (2.167), France (2.091), Turkey (1.958), Russia (1.958).
Draw takes place on Sunday 2 December at 1100 (UK Time) in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Source: C4 Football Italia / UEFA
Roberto Donadoni's Italy may have secured top spot in Group B, but the coach has criticised the Italian media for focusing on the negatives too much.
"I saw a great choreography and participation from the fans today," he said after the 3-1 win over the Faroe Islands at the Stadio Braglia. "Modena is a wonderful city and we’re glad we could share this fine end to our qualifying campaign with them tonight."
The Azzurri were under a lot of pressure going into the last two games, but picked up victories over Scotland and the Faroes to secure qualification and top spot respectively.
However, even France boss Raymond Domenech said it was "abhorrent" that Italy were not in the seeds for the Euro 2008 finals draw.
"The controversy is entirely sterile and pointless. We will see how the draw goes and then evaluate the situation, but this is the state of affairs so discussing it will make no difference," insisted Donadoni.
The headlines have also been dominated by questions over whether he will pen a new contract before the tournament in Austria and Switzerland.
"The contract is again a futile debate. I was asked a question about this and I answered in a civil fashion, but this is not an issue I want to think about right now.
"It’s not important to me and therefore shouldn’t be important to the journalists either."
Captain Fabio Cannavaro marked his 113th cap tonight, overtaking Dino Zoff to move second, only behind Paolo Maldini.
"Overtaking a legend like Zoff is very special, as we all grew up with the image of Super Dino. It’s also very satisfying for me to have worn the Azzurri jersey 113 times," he said.
Maldini is on 126 caps, but Cannavaro now has time to catch him up after Italy's qualification to the Euro 2008 finals.
"The fans of the Nazionale are always wonderful. When you have won the World Cup and less than two years later qualified for Euro 2008, the people appreciate that and realise the achievements we have made."
Defender Giorgio Chiellini scored a stunning third for the Azzurri and he was overjoyed at his debut goal. "I am very happy as I don’t often get to hit the back of the net. My first goal for the Nazionale is such a special moment that will remain with me forever.
He now wants to cement a starting place at Juventus and get called up for the finals next summer.
"I am certainly aiming for a place at Euro 2008. Things are going well with Juventus and I know I have to keep working hard with them to achieve it. It would be foolish to sit back now."
Luca Toni admits he was particularly happy to score in his hometown stadium for his fifth goal in qualifying.
"I really wanted to do well here. It wasn’t easy to play as they were all clammed up in their own half, but we made it," grinned the Modena native.
Youngster Raffaele Palladino is celebrating his senior debut and is targeting a place in the 23-man squad going to Austria and Switzerland.
"I am very happy just to be here on my debut and when the Coach told me I’d be in the starting XI I was very excited," he said.
"Now the path to Euro 2008 has to be travelled day after day, working constantly and improving. My first aim must be to win my spot at Juventus, then anything else must come from there.
"My teammates tell me I never shoot and always go for the assist, so after the game started going well for us I tried to get a bit of personal glory on the night. I didn’t get a goal, but the performance went well, I think."
Source: C4 Football Italia
Portugal, Russia, Sweden and Turkey became the last four countries to book places at the Euro 2008 finals on a dramatic final night of qualifying.
Co-hosts: Austria & Switzerland.
Group A: Poland & Portugal.
Group B: Italy & France.
Group C: Greece & Turkey.
Group D: Czech Rep & Germany.
Group E: Croatia & Russia.
Group F: Spain & Sweden.
Group G: Romania & Netherlands.
Nowhere was the drama more intense than in Group E where Russia grabbed second place off an England side who, needing just a point to qualify, went down 3-2 at home to Croatia, succumbing to Mladen Petric's late strike.
Dmitri Sychev's solitary strike gave Russia a 1-0 victory in Andorra which proved enough to lift them a point above England, while the impressive Croatians celebrated winning the section.
Portugal secured second place in Group A thanks to a goalless home draw with Finland – a result which ended the visitors' hopes of progress. Luiz Felipe Scolari's men finished a point behind first-time qualifiers Poland, who drew 2-2 at Serbia.
Turkey's 1-0 success against Bosnia-Herzegovina ensured them the runners-up slot behind Group C winners Greece, ending Norway's challenge in the process. Although the Scandinavians prevailed 4-1 in Malta, Turkey finished a point clear thanks to Nihat Kahveci's strike.
In Group F, meanwhile, Kim Kallstrom's second-half effort earned Sweden the 2-1 home victory against Latvia that they required to claim the runners-up berth behind Spain, whose 1-0 triumph over Northern Ireland extinguished the visitors' hopes in Gran Canaria.
Twelve teams were already sure of their places in the draw in Lucerne on 2 December. Switzerland and Austria had qualified automatically as co-hosts, and were joined by Germany, Greece, the Czech Republic and Romania last month. On Saturday, Poland, world champions Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands and Croatia also advanced.
Austria and Switzerland are both top seeds for the draw and they will be joined by holders Greece and Marco van Basten's Netherlands. The Azzurri have been placed in Pot 2.
Seedings for the draw:
[Pot 1] Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Netherlands.
[Pot 2] Croatia, Italy, Czech Republic, Sweden.
[Pot 3] Germany, Romania, Portugal, Spain.
[Pot 4] Poland, France, Turkey, Russia.
Source: UEFA
Italy clinched first place in UEFA European Futsal Championship Group A with a comfortable defeat of the Czech Republic that keeps them apart from holders Spain in Friday's semi-finals.
Sandro Zanetti and Adriano Foglia struck before two Fabiano Assad goals ensured Italy's place in the last four, and they finished top ahead of Portugal on goal difference.
The Azzurri will continue their bid to reclaim the trophy they won in 2003 against the team that eliminated them 4-2 in the semi-finals two years later, Russia.
Group A - Matchday 3 Results:
Romania 0-3 Portugal (21-11-07)
Italy 4-0 Czech Republic (21-11-07)
Group B - Matchday 3 Results:
Russia 1-4 Spain (21-11-07)
Ukraine 2-3 Serbia (21-11-07)
Group B: Italy 3-1 Faroe Islands (Modena)
Italy completed their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign by securing top spot in Group B with a 3-1 triumph over the Faroe Islands in Modena.
Defender Frodi Benjaminsen's own goal put the world champions in front after eleven minutes, Luca Toni doubled the lead on 36 minutes and Giorgio Chiellini's stunning strike four minutes before the break gave the Azzurri a commanding advantage.
Rogvi Jacobsen's header reduced the deficit seven minutes from the end but the visitors ended the qualifying tournament without a single point on the board.
Having already earned qualification for next summer's finals, coach Roberto Donadoni made eight changes from Saturday's 2-1 triumph in Scotland but his reshuffled side did not take long to break the deadlock.
Toni had already directed a close-range header just wide when Benjaminsen deflected Massimo Oddo's cross into his own net. Italy continued to press forward and shortly after the half-hour they increased their advantage, Toni getting on to the end of Fabio Grosso's cross before firing past Jakup Mikkelsen.
The home side continued to control possession and their efforts were rewarded again when Chiellini's 25-metre drive stunned Mikkelsen. At the other end, the Faroes threatened with Suni Olsen's shot from distance falling just wide of Marco Amelia's far post.
Into the second half and Mikkelsen had to dive at full stretch to stop Toni's right-footed effort while Hanus Thorleifson made a goalline clearance from Italy substitute Fabio Quagliarella's powerful header.
Jogvan Martin Olsen's team did not just defend, though, and on 83 minutes, they found the net when Jacobsen's powerful header towards the near post beat Amelia. Italy might have conceded a second had Amelia not saved Johan Davidsen's header but by then, the job was done.
GROUP B RESULTS:
Georgia 0-2 Lithuania
Italy 3-1 Faroe Islands
Ukraine 2-2 France
GROUP B TABLE:
[1] ITA - PLD: 12 - PTS: 29
[2] FRA - PLD: 12 - PTS: 26
---------------------------
[3] SCO - PLD: 12 - PTS: 24
[4] UKR - PLD: 12 - PTS: 17
[5] LIT - PLD: 12 - PTS: 16
[6] GEO - PLD: 12 - PTS: 10
[7] FAR - PLD: 12 - PTS: 00
MATCH REACTION:
[Azzurri] - [Euro 2008 line-up complete]
Source: UEFA / C4 Football Italia
Group 1: Faroe Islands U21 0-1 Italy U21 (Torshavn)
A late goal from second-half substitute Nicola Pozzi gave ten-man Italy a 1-0 victory against Faroe Islands in Torshavn to keep the Azzurrini top of Group 1.
Pierluigi Casiraghi's side missed several first-half opportunities with Pablo Daniel Osvaldo and Alessio Cerci both culpable. And it looked as though the match would finish goalless until Pozzi struck ten minutes from time.
Osvaldo had squandered the best early openings when he twice missed the target with only Gunnar Nielsen to beat. Cerci then hit the bar with a close-range header moments before Fabiano Santacroce's sending-off on 42 minutes.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Azzurrini continued to press in the second half yet were nearly undone when goalkeeper Andrea Consigli was stretched by Bogi Lokin.
With the clock ticking down, Casiraghi replaced Osvaldo with Pozzi and the move proved decisive. The Empoli striker immediately tested the reflexes of Nielsen with a right-footed shot before nodding in the only goal from Paolo De Ceglie's left-wing cross.
GROUP 1 RESULTS:
Azerbaijan 0-1 Croatia
Faroe Islandes 0-1 Italy
Greece 2-1 Albania
GROUP 1 TABLE:
[1] ITA - PLD: 07 - PTS: 19
---------------------------
[2] CRO - PLD: 08 - PTS: 18
[3] GRE - PLD: 07 - PTS: 13
[4] ALB - PLD: 07 - PTS: 10
[5] FAR - PLD: 08 - PTS: 03
[6] AZE - PLD: 07 - PTS: 01
Source: UEFA
Italy can afford to rotate their squad for Wednesday's final Euro 2008 Group B game at home to the Faroe Islands having secured qualification thanks to Saturday's 2-1 win in Scotland.
A victory at the Stadio Alberto Braglia in Modena over the bottom side would secure top spot in the group ahead of already qualified France but events in the stands and outside the stadium may be of more interest that action on the pitch.
The match will be the first professional game played in Italy since riots in Rome a week last Sunday following the shooting dead of a Lazio fan by a police officer.
All Serie B and C games were postponed last weekend as a mark of respect for the dead man with authorities also busy tightening security ahead of the resumption of action.
No trouble is expected in the northern city of Modena, especially with the Faroes bringing very few fans, but police will still be on guard given the recent violence aimed at them.
On the pitch coach Roberto Donadoni is likely to tinker with his line-up, if only to avoid the anger of Serie A bosses should any injuries occur in a meaningless match.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon may be rested while Juventus winger Raffale Palladino could be handed a debut. His club colleague Vincenzo Iaquinta is also pushing for a start upfront after coming on as a substitute in Glasgow.
Donadoni has accomplished the mission of getting his team to the European championship with one game to spare, no small feat considering the pressure he was under after replacing Marcello Lippi.
During the qualifying campaign, there were calls for him to move aside in the Italian media.
"This squad has fully deserved this qualification," said Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Giancarlo Abete. "Had we failed to achieve this aim, we would have been depressed for 10 months.
"We have to say thanks to a united group of players and to a coach who has made it possible. We will try to continue on this road with him for as long as possible."
Beating France to first place will be the icing on the cake although Donadoni has more ambition than that. Italy lead the group, one point clear of France, who take on Ukraine on Wednesday.
"I now imagine the European Championship as being less easy than the World Cup," said Donadoni. "We will go there with our usual ambition, to play for the win. This is my mentality, for my team to go out on the pitch trying to get the best possible result.
"My dream is to create a team that has a winning mentality and can think big."
Italy have just two friendlies against the Netherlands and Spain so far pencilled in before June's finals in Austria and Switzerland so Donadoni may use the Faroes game to look at different tactics.
Roberto Donadoni is confident Italy can follow up their World Cup success by winning Euro 2008.
The Azzurri booked their place in next summer's finals on Saturday as Christian Panucci's last-minute header gave them a 2-1 victory over Scotland.
Donadoni feels that Italy will be among the favourites but accepts that it will be just as difficult to lift the trophy as it was in Germany last year.
"The group is really strong, mentally as well as technically," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"That's why I think we will be contenders. It will be hard because, with the exception of Brazil and Argentina, it will be like a World Cup.
"It is difficult also to face strong sides right from the start but we can arrive at the end. We will go there to win."
Donadoni admits the performance against Scotland gave him the feeling that he had moulded a team that could be very special.
"Now, after more than a year, I feel the group is a little more mine," said Donadoni, who took charge after Marcello Lippi had guided Italy to World Cup glory.
"I don't get big-headed after winning in Scotland but I am satisfied.
"This is the national team I wanted and that I've built with patience and coherence."
Italy equalled the record margin of victory in the UEFA European Futsal Championship finals as their class told against Romania.
Two days ago Italy were involved in the first 0-0 draw in this competition in eight years against hosts Portugal but this afternoon they struck after 82 seconds through Carlos Morgado, who went on to complete a hat-trick.
Romania defeated the Czech Republic 8-4 on their finals debut on Friday but the 2003 winners were a class above and now need only a point against the Czech Republic in Santo Tirso on Wednesday to keep up their record of reaching every semi-final, while Romania take on Portugal in Gondomar.
Adriano Foglia scored a brace, and Saad Assis and Fernando Grana added the others. Cosmin Gherman scored Romania's only goal to make it 3-1.
Group A - Matchday 2 Results:
Italy 7-1 Romania (18-11-07)
Portugal 5-3 Czech Republic (18-11-07)
Group B - Matchday 2 Results:
Ukraine 1-4 Russia (19-11-07)
Spain 1-1 Serbia (19-11-07)
The Italian media paid tribute to the country's football heroes after they clinched a place at the Euro 2008 finals with a hard-fought 2-1 win in Scotland.
Luca Toni opened the scoring at Hampden Park on Saturday and, although Barry Ferguson restored parity midway through the second half, Christian Panucci's late strike ensured the World Cup winners progressed from Group B along with France.
The headline in sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport exclaimed: "Italy fly to the European Championship - Panucci's goal seals qualification."
The Corriere dello Sport's headline read: "This is Italy. The Glasgow triumph gives us the European Championships."
A sub-headline in national newspaper La Repubblica said: "From Toni to Panucci, the perfect game - but it is a 2-1 (win) obtained with a World Cup spirit."
More than ten million viewers watched the game on television in Italy and they were given immediate cause to cheer after Toni's second-minute opener.
After Scotland equalised in the second half, Roma defender Panucci - a player who did not make Marcello Lippi's World Cup squad - knocked in the winner in second-half injury time.
When the Azzurri won the 2006 World Cup in Berlin, they did so with Serie A football under a cloud with some of the national-team players' clubs embroiled in the Calciopoli scandal.
On Saturday, Italy played just six days after the shooting death of a Lazio fan which sparked football-related violence across the country.
Players wore black armbands in memory of the victim, Gabriele Sandri.
National newspaper La Stampa likened the win to the success in Germany. "Triumph in Scotland, Italy go to the European Championship," its main headline read.
That paper also said: "We see again the World Cup Azzurri - the goals of Toni and Panucci, but also the heart of Berlin."
A La Reppublica columnist questioned the tactics of Scotland manager Alex McLeish, who used James McFadden up front, writing: "McLeish gave us a hand playing with just one forward for almost an hour."
There is also a reference to Italy coach Roberto Donadoni, whose position has been in question ever since he replaced Lippi at the helm.
"Now what will we say of Donadoni?" one story asked.
The game was played in very wet conditions at Hampden Park in Glasgow.
National newspaper Corriere della Sera said in a headline: "Battle under the rain in Glasgow. Italy go to the European Championship."
That paper also said the hosts had been fortunate in its match report. The story's headline read: "Toni scores then Antonio Di Natale has a goal disallowed, then after the restart, Scotland equalise in offside position and Panucci scores the crucial goal at the end."Source: PA
France coach Raymond Domenech has taken the credit for Italy and France both reaching Euro 2008. "At least they were useful for once."
Le Bleus boss has made a habit of sniping comments towards the Azzurri, especially after the World Cup Final won on penalties in Germany last year.
Italy’s 2-1 victory in Scotland automatically qualified both Roberto Donadoni’s side and France for the tournament.
"They won because my words motivated them," smiled Domenech, who had suggested this week that Italy were 'draw specialists.'
"I didn’t see the game, as I prefer not to force myself to sit through too many ugly things. I feel both relieved and frustrated, as to be honest I would have preferred to play the last game in Ukraine with the need for a result.
"This is the strength of our squad, the ability to hold out under pressure, when we are afraid of elimination. I shall miss that sensation."
If Italy had drawn in Glasgow, France simply needed to avoid defeat in Kiev on Wednesday evening, but now that tie and the Azzurri’s against the Faroe Islands only serve to decide which of the two teams top Group B.
"I am happy anyway, as if we are qualified today then it means that we deserved it," concluded Domenech.
While French newspaper 'L’Equipe' offered to "kiss Italy’s feet" this morning, striker Thierry Henry also refuses to thank the Azzurri for facilitating France’s qualification.
The 2-1 victory in Glasgow yesterday evening mathematically saw both Italy and France through to Euro 2008.
Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Giancarlo Abete revealed he had received a phone call from French Federation (FFF) chief Escalettes to thank him for the result.
However, Henry agreed with coach Domenech that they do not owe a debt of gratitude to their cousins over the Alps.
"Someone didn’t want us at the European Championships," he told TF1. "I have read too many people saying 'grazie mille' in the newspapers. France qualified exactly the same way as Italy did, by picking up 25 points all on their own."
Source: C4 Football Italia
Scotland fell agonisingly at the final hurdle in their Euro 2008 qualification bid as Christian Panucci's last-gasp header earned Italy a 2-1 win at Hampden Park.
Alex McLeish's side needed to win to ensure a path to Austria and Switzerland next summer and, despite going behind just two minutes in, they almost overcame the reigning world champions.
Barry Ferguson's 64th-minute tap-in cancelled out Luca Toni's opener and Panucci struck in injury-time. To add insult to injury that devastating late blow came after the Azzurri were awarded a free-kick after Alan Hutton appeared to be impeded by sub Giorgio Chiellini.
Afterwards McLeish was furious with Spanish referee Manuel Enrique Mejuto Gonzalez. He was adamant an injustice had been done when Hutton was penalised.
"We didn't deserve that, to lose that game, we battered them in the second half and they were dead men walking at the end," he said.
"The set-piece that led to their second goal was an unbelievable decision. Alan Hutton was in control of the ball and their guy battered him. How can that be a free-kick to Italy?
"They got most 50-50s and we expected that."
But despite his heartbreak, McLeish insisted his players should be proud of their efforts both at Hampden Park and throughout their campaign.
"I'm proud of these players," he added. "That first goal was so unlike us. It took the power away from us for a spell.
"We were making chances, we were imaginative, but unfortunately it didn't fall for us. It was a terrific effort and you could see the fans' appreciation after the game.
"The Italians know they were a lucky team to leave Hampden Park with a victory. We've got to take heart from this and confidence."
The World champions also had complaints about the refereeing, as they had an Antonio Di Natale goal incorrectly disallowed for offside in the first half and Scotland’s equaliser was probably offside.
Striker James McFadden meanwhile claimed Scotland had been "absolutely robbed" by the decision to award Italy that late set-piece.
He said: "After all the hard work we've been absolutely robbed by the referee. I think he was shocking. Coming from the Ukraine game, people didn't want us to qualify and they've got what they wanted."
Source: C4 Football Italia
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni insists his side were well worth their 2-1 victory over Scotland which saw them book their place at Euro 2008.
Christian Panucci's last-gasp winner ended Scotland's dreams of qualifying for their first major international tournament in a decade as top two spots in Group B now go to the Azzurri and France.
Donadoni said: "We knew that it was going to a very physical game and the atmosphere made it even more so.
"I have to say that the lads were magnificent. This is a victory that belongs to these players who fought with character and desire: all the credit goes to them."
Luca Toni gave the Azzurri the best possible start when he opened the scoring after just two minutes before Barry Ferguson sent Hampden Park into raptures with a 65th minute equaliser. But Panucci struck in injury-time to break Scottish hearts.
"The most positive note of the evening is not just qualifying for the European Championships, but also in this atmosphere with fans and players who always cheered on their side with fair play," Donadoni added.
Panucci said: "Tonight I'm as happy as a child, like my son who is six. I have had many great moments in my career but never like this.
"I am so happy for myself and Donadoni. I hugged him so many times. This qualification was also his. I played with him at Milan, he has a winning mentality.
"It's the happiest moment of my career."
Fabio Cannavaro, who was winning his 112th cap, insisted that the Azzurri had answered all their critics with the all important victory.
"We showed our strength tonight," said the Azzurri captain. "We are a compact squad and when we know we have to win we succeed in giving great displays.
"We showed that we are World champions and that we haven't forgotten how to play.
"After the equaliser we were worried to tell you the truth, we felt their desire. Scotland were growing stronger and had several good chances, but we managed to stay strong."
Toni was also full of praise for his side's mental strength after the World champions had to dig deep against a battling Scotland side.
"We came here knowing that we were going to play in very difficult conditions," he said. "And that's what happened tonight. This is the best we've played under Donadoni.
"My goal was very important, because we showed them what we had come here to do."
Meanwhile, one player in the Azzurri line-up has just one cloud over his evening - helping rivals France to reach the finals too.
Gennaro Gattuso, who played in Scotland for Glasgow Rangers, said: "I am proud of the qualification we have achieved with this squad. But I am really annoyed because I know we also helped France to go through."
Gattuso spent a year at Rangers at the start of his career and married a local girl, but even stronger than his love for the country is his dislike of Les Bleus.
"Raymond Domenech is always being such a pain and he really did not deserve to reach the finals.
"Now I hope to meet France at Euro 2008 so we can teach them all a lesson."
Source: C4 Football Italia
Group B: Scotland 1-2 Italy (Glasgow)
Christian Panucci's 91st-minute header shattered Scottish hearts as World champions Italy booked their place at the Euro 2008 finals with a 2-1 victory at a rain-soaked Hampden Park.
Panucci's goal, which restored Italy's lead after Barry Ferguson had equalised Luca Toni's early opener, also ensured France's progress to the finals, meaning only the identity of the Group B winners is left to be decided when the Azzurri face Faroe Islands and France visit Ukraine on Wednesday.
For Scotland, though, the dream of a first major tournament appearance in a decade is dead.
The hosts needed a win to secure a place in Austria and Switzerland but they made the worst possible start when Toni pounced with an emphatic near-post finish inside the second minute. From Gianluca Zambrotta's throw into the box, Antonio Di Natale collected the ball and crossed low for the big striker who, without an international goal since his double against the Scots in March, drove high into the net.
Scotland were rocking and Italy threatened to score again. Mauro Camoranesi fired over, then Toni's rising shot forced Craig Gordon into a save.
Set-pieces appeared the Scots' best hope and they had Italy on the back foot with a succession of corners. After white shirts had blocked Alan Hutton's header and Lee McCulloch's shot, McFadden swung another corner in and Hutton nodded a whisker wide.
At the back, though, the home defence were struggling to contain Toni and Italy nearly killed the Scots off just after the half-hour mark. Gordon stopped superbly from Massimo Ambrosini and Di Natale turned the rebound into the net only to be denied wrongly by the linesman's flag.
After that reprieve Alex McLeish's men nearly stole an equaliser on the stroke of the interval, David Weir's header beating Gianluigi Buffon but not Andrea Pirlo on the goalline.
Scotland drew level on 65 minutes after Hutton's forceful run had won a free-kick on the edge of the Azzurri area. McFadden's deflected effort fell to Stephen McManus and although Buffon kept his shot out, Ferguson bundled in the rebound. Replays showed the Scots might've been fortunate as Ferguson looked to be in an offside position.
The home supporters sensed a famous victory when substitute Kenny Miller crossed low to the far post but McFadden, a hero so often for Scotland, turned the ball wide. Instead the last word went to Italy as Panucci, who missed an open goal minutes earlier, headed Pirlo's late free-kick past Gordon.
GROUP B RESULTS:
Lithuania 2-0 Ukraine
Scotland 1-2 Italy
GROUP B TABLE:
[1] ITA - PLD: 11 - PTS: 26
[2] FRA - PLD: 11 - PTS: 25
---------------------------
[3] SCO - PLD: 12 - PTS: 24
[4] UKR - PLD: 11 - PTS: 16
[5] LIT - PLD: 11 - PTS: 13
[6] GEO - PLD: 11 - PTS: 10
[7] FAR - PLD: 11 - PTS: 00
GROUP B REMAINING FIXTURES:
[21-11-2007] Georgia-Lithuania, Italy-Faroe Islands, Ukraine-France.
MATCH REACTION:
[Azzurri] - [Scottish] - [French] - [Press]
Source: UEFA / C4 Football Italia
Remember, we’re World Champions!
Scotland-Italy at Hampden Park this evening at 1800 (CET)
It’s the decisive match for Euro 2008
Italy will be looking to restore national pride and book a place at next year's European Championship finals when they face Scotland in a crunch Group B qualifier this evening.
Last year the Azzurri rose above the Calciopoli scandal that was dominating the domestic game to win the World Cup in Germany and now they will attempt to overcome a painful week in which football-related violence has tarnished the image of Serie A again.
Today's match will be played just six days after Lazio fan Gabriele Sandri was killed by police at a motorway service station, a tragedy that prompted unruly scenes at Atalanta's game and rioting at the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) headquarters in Rome.
"If we are able to get a good result in Scotland and qualify, we would dedicate it to the family of the victim," said goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon before the team's departure from Italy. "It would be the best present we could give them."
Italy's players will wear black armbands in honour of Sandri.
The world champions can seal their place in next summer's showpiece in Austria and Switzerland with a win at Hampden Park. Defeat, however, would leave their hopes of qualification hanging by a thread and coach Roberto Donadoni's future in doubt.
The fixture has the potential to serve up a fairytale ending for the home side, whose last major international tournament was the FIFA World Cup in France almost a decade ago.
A win would seal their qualification and an unbeaten home record against Italy will boost the Scots' hopes of coming through one of the toughest qualifying groups, as will the fact Alex McLeish's men have not dropped a point on home soil throughout the campaign.
In the reverse fixture back in March Italy won 2-0 in Bari, and defeat here for the Scots would end all chances of qualifying. A draw would mean the Tartan Army would have to rely on Ukraine beating France on Wednesday.
France top the group with 25 points, Scotland are second on 24 and Italy third on 23, although the Azzurri have played one game fewer and face minnows Faroe Islands in their final game on Wednesday.
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni fired off a warning shot to his critics ahead of the crunch Euro 2008 qualifier with Scotland at Hampden Park on Saturday.
The Azzurri go into the match against Scotland third in Group B, two points behind leaders France and one behind Alex McLeish's side.
A draw would leave Scotland needing Ukraine to beat France next Wednesday while the World champions would only require a win against the Faroe Islands in Modena to qualify for next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland.
However, a Scotland win would leave Italy and France fighting for the second qualification spot, with Donadoni under pressure to keep his job if they fail to make the finals in Switzerland.
Asked if the game against the Scots was a defining moment for himself, the former AC Milan star said: "We have two matches left, Scotland have one match left. Where I was brought up, they say you have to have received a death certificate before you are declared dead.
"There is no need to ask the players how they can mess up at a stadium like Hampden or in a game of this importance. What is important is to look the players in the eyes and see that they know what is expected of them. If we are not ready for this game then we will never be ready for any game.
"We are aware that we are meeting opponents who will use their ability, aggression, spirit and the backing of the crowd. But they are 11 players of flesh and bone just like us. We will use our determination and ability to get a result.
"It has been a good week for team rapport. Now it is down to the players. It doesn't matter who plays, what matters is the determination to make the effort, to run, to get back in the game if you make mistakes. I have 24 players of the same level, we all win or we all lose together."
Donadoni was respectful of Scotland's two unlikely victories over France earlier in the section which turned Group B on its head.
He said: "Sometimes you have more or less luck but if they beat France twice then it was deserved. But to qualify takes more than two games."
Defender Massimo Oddo, who hurt his foot during Italy's last training session at Coverciano before leaving with the team for Glasgow, looks to have recovered but he is set to be replaced by Christian Panucci in the starting line-up.
Barcelona full-back Gianluca Zambrotta has fully recovered from a minor knee problem and trained at Hampden Park this evening with the rest of the squad.
The Azzurri welcome back captain Fabio Cannavaro, who missed last month's qualifier against Georgia through suspension.
Cannavaro will play alongside Palermo's Andrea Barzagli in central defence. AC Milan trio Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo and Massimo Ambrosini are likely to form the Azzurri's midfield with Luca Toni leading the attack.
The UEFA European Futsal Championship began with its first goalless draw in eight years as hosts Portugal and Italy cancelled each other out in Group A.
Portugal were involved in the last 0-0 result in this competition, drawing with Belgium in the opening game of the 1999 finals.
Today they found life tough against 2003 winners Italy but the Azzurri were unable to convert their chances to create a repeat of their 8-3 defeat of Portugal in Ostrava two years ago.
Group A - Matchday 1 Results:
Portugal 0-0 Italy (16-11-07)
Czech Republic 4-8 Romania (16-11-07)
Group B - Matchday 1 Results:
Spain 6-2 Ukraine (17-11-07)
Serbia 3-5 Russia (17-11-07)
Group 1: Italy U21 5-0 Azerbaijan U21 (Fermo)Italy maintained their stranglehold on their U21 Euro 2009 qualifying group with a polished 5-0 win against Azerbaijan in Fermo sending them four points clear of nearest rivals Croatia.
Pierluigi Casiraghi's team had to wait 42 minutes to make the breakthough but after that there was no looking back. Robert Acquafresca's cross from the left was deflected in to his own net by Rahid Amirguliyev before the striker, who also hit the crossbar, scored the second just prior to the interval as he made no mistake from close range after a defence-splitting pass from Sebastian Giovinco.
Striker Alessio Cerci marked his Azzurini debut by scoring the third goal 13 minutes from time after another brilliant pass by Giovinco and second-half substitute Andrea Russotto made it four with five minutes remaining after Salahat Aghayev had parried a shot by Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.In added time midfielder Daniele Dessena put the finishing touch to the win with a right-foot volley from a cross by Paolo De Ceglie.
Italy, who now have 16 points from six games in Group 1, travel to the Faroe Islands on Tuesday for their next qualifier.
GROUP 1 RESULTS:
Italy 5-0 Azerbaijan
Faroe Islands 0-5 Albania (17/11/2007)
Greece 3-4 Croatia (17/11/2007)
GROUP 1 TABLE:
[1] ITA - PLD: 06 - PTS: 16
---------------------------
[2] CRO - PLD: 07 - PTS: 15
[3] GRE - PLD: 06 - PTS: 10
[4] ALB - PLD: 06 - PTS: 10
[5] FAR - PLD: 07 - PTS: 03
[6] AZE - PLD: 06 - PTS: 01
Source: UEFA
Italy defender Massimo Oddo is doubtful for Saturday's crunch Euro 2008 qualifying game against Scotland due to injury.
Oddo hurt his foot during Italy's last training session at Coverciano before leaving with the team for Glasgow.
The AC Milan right-back underwent tests in hospital which have ruled out a fracture, but he is an unlikely starter for the Hampden Park clash.
The good news for coach Roberto Donadoni is that Barcelona left-back Gianluca Zambrotta has fully recovered from a minor knee problem and will be available for selection.
Italy trio Sandro Zanetti, Vinicius Bacaro and Carlos Mantovanelli have passed fitness tests to make the 14-man squad for the UEFA European Futsal Championship finals which begin tomorrow in Porto.
Zanetti, Bacaro and Mantovanelli had been doubtful with thigh, knee and groin problems respectively, but all have been included after the final cut from 18-men made by Italy coach Alessandro Nuccorini. However, Patrick Nora misses out with a thigh injury.
The Azzurri, who won the trophy back in 2003, will take part in the opening game on Friday against hosts Portugal in Group A.
Italy squad
Goalkeepers: Alexander Feller (Luparense Calcio A5), Caio Farina (ElPozo Murcia FS).
Outfield players: Assad Fabiano (Gestesa Guadalajara FS), Anderson Pellegrini (Xota Pamplona FS), Marcio Forte (Montesilvano Calcio A5), Fernando Grana (Luparense Calcio A5), Jocimar Jubanski (Luparense Calcio A5), Carlos Montovanelli (Luparense Calcio A5), Edgar Bertoni (Interviu Fadesa), Saad Assis (PSG Mostoles), Vinicius Bacaro (ElPozo Murcia FS), Adriano Foglia (Montesilvano Calcio A5), Carlos Morgado (Montesilvano Calcio A5), Sandro Zanetti (PSG Mostoles).
Gianluigi Buffon has told Scotland to be afraid ahead of their crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Italy on Saturday.
The clash at Hampden Park is likely to decide which of the two sides will advance to next summer's tournament, with France certain to qualify if they beat Ukraine.
Buffon is confident Italy will be able to cope with the pressure, and feels Scotland could struggle due to the relative inexperience of their squad.
"We could be afraid if we didn't have experience but the squad is full of players who have experience of Serie A, the Champions League and the World Cup so we will not find ourselves unprepared," the Juventus goalkeeper told The Guardian newspaper.
"If anyone is afraid it is Scotland who are afraid of us."
Buffon is taking nothing for granted though as he has been impressed by Scotland's surprise challenge in Group B. "Scotland are always worthy of respect and football in Scotland is evolving," he said.
"Perhaps compared to us they have been inferior technically but from the point of view of character they have always had a good squad that can narrow the gap.
"As a goalkeeper I always look out for my opponent's strikers and I must say that James McFadden is a very good player and Kenny Miller has also impressed me.
"These are top players. We are not playing against a side from the Scottish fourth division."
Italian football federation (FIGC) chief Giancarlo Abete has stressed the national team will not be distracted by the turmoil back home as they prepare for their crunch Euro 2008 qualifier against Scotland.
Much of the country is still trying to come to terms with the death of 26-year-old Lazio fan Gabriele Sandri, who was shot accidentally by a policeman.
Abete, who is spending this week with the national team, announced on Monday that Italy will wear black armbands during Saturday's encounter in memory of Sandri. All domestic league matches - in Serie B and C - this weekend have been postponed.
However, he hopes the problems the nation is currently experiencing do not affect Italy's bid to qualify.
"This is an important week for Italian football," said Abete. "But the national team has the support of the nation and of the football bodies.
"Saturday's encounter is a difficult game but the national team is preparing well for it."
Abete added: "This is a difficult time for Italian football and especially for the family of Gabriele Sandri."
Italy striker Luca Toni will not even consider the possibility of defeat in Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier with Scotland.
Toni, a member of the World Cup-winning side in Germany in 2006, expects the Azzurri to clinch their passage to next summer's finals in Glasgow.
"I want to play at Euro 2008," said Toni. "Frankly, I don't even consider in my mind the possibility that Italy will not be there."
The Bayern Munich frontman knows the task that awaits them in Glasgow.
The last time the two teams met on Scottish soil, the Azzurri were made to struggle and only a late equaliser by substitute Fabio Grosso secured Italy a 1-1 draw in their World Cup qualifier back in 2005 at the same ground.
"I remember that game," said Toni. "We know what atmosphere to expect. It will be a packed stadium, the home fans will be supporting their team for the entire game. But this atmosphere will only motivate us to do well.
"We know what we need to do."
Toni believes Italy will have to show their World Cup-winning credentials against Alex McLeish's side to come out triumphant.
"We know what our responsibilities are as world champions," said Toni. "We have to prove our worth on the pitch. All the teams that play against us give everything. We know what is at stake.
"But Saturday's encounter is a great game that any player would want to play (in), and we can't wait to go out on the pitch."
Saturday's game will be the most important for coach Roberto Donadoni since taking over the national team shortly after the Azzurri's World Cup triumph. A defeat would almost certainly bring to an end his spell as national coach.
"I think Donadoni has done a great job," admitted Toni. "It wasn't easy for him to replace coach Marcello Lippi, who won the World Cup.
"We struggled at the beginning of our qualifying campaign but we bounced back."
Fabio Cannavaro has admitted he did not expect Scotland to challenge Italy and France for Euro 2008 qualification.
Italy face Scotland at Hampden Park this Saturday and victory for either side would secure their place in next summer's tournament.
France have lost to Scotland home and away but their fate will be in their own hands when they face Ukraine next Wednesday.
Cannavaro remains confident that his Azzurri side will progress, but he has been impressed by Alex McLeish's side.
"I am surprised that Scotland have shown a lot of strength in this group," said the defender. "But I am even more surprised that they beat France, one of the strongest sides in the world.
"Prior to qualifying, everyone thought that France and Italy would secure the top spots in the group. But Scotland are still in there with a chance."
A draw against Scotland would leave Italy needing just one more point from their final group game with Faroe Islands, but Cannavaro wants to complete the job in Glasgow.
"Saturday's game is going to be a very hard game for us," he said.
"Scotland need a win and for us it's crucial to go to Scotland and play well and get a win. It's going to be difficult but we know we can do it."
Roberto Donadoni insists Italy will be heading to Scotland on Saturday with an intention to win the Euro 2008 qualifier.
A draw for Italy, followed by an expected home win over Faroe Islands next week, would ensure the world champions finish in the top two in the group and a spot at next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland.
Azzurri coach Donadoni, though, is adamant that he will be sending out his team with the aim of securing a first win on Scottish soil.
Donadoni told the Italian media: "Scotland are undoubtedly obtaining high-level results - their coach did a really important job and the fact they are set to play for qualification shows this.
"Italy has never won in Scotland? The past certainly has its importance, but on Saturday it will be a new game that must be played.
"They want to win, but we will do the same too."
Juventus forward Raffaele Palladino is the only new face in Roberto Donadoni's 24-man squad for Italy's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Scotland and the Faroe Islands on November 17 and 21.
The 23-year-old Palladino has scored one goal in nine Serie A matches for Juventus this season and is one of five Juve players included in the Azzurri squad alongside Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Mauro Camoranesi and Vincenzo Iaquinta, although Donadoni has decided against calling up Bianconeri captain Alessandro Del Piero.
Italy are third in Group B, two points behind France and one behind Scotland. A victory in Glasgow - or a draw and a consequent victory against the Faroes in Modena - would book the Azzurri's place in the tournament in Austria and Switzerland next summer.
The Azzurri squad will meet up at the Coverciano training ground on Monday afternoon and fly out to Glasgow on Friday.
Italy squad
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Marco Amelia (Livorno), Gianluca Curci (Roma).
Defenders: Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Daniele Bonera (AC Milan), Fabio Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Fabio Grosso (Olympique Lyonnais), Massimo Oddo (AC Milan), Christian Panucci (Roma), Gianluca Zambrotta (Barcelona).
Midfielders: Massimo Ambrosini (AC Milan), Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Simone Perrotta (Roma), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan).
Forwards: Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Alberto Gilardino (AC Milan), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus), Cristiano Lucarelli (Shakhtar Donetsk), Raffaele Palladino (Juventus), Fabio Quagliarella (Udinese), Luca Toni (Bayern Munich).
Source: C4 Football Italia / UEFA
Italy boss Roberto Donadoni insists he is "calmly" preparing for the crunch Euro 2008 qualifier against Scotland next weekend.
The match is likely to make or break the Azzurri's qualifying campaign for the finals in Austria and Switzerland next year.
Victory over the second-placed Scots on November 17 would ensure Italy a place at the finals, and a draw would leave them only needing a point against the Faroe Islands four days later to book their place.
Defeat could mean the unthinkable for the world champions: missing out next summer.
Scotland boss Alex McLeish, who named his squad for the showdown yesterday, believes the Azzurri are under greater pressure than his side, who will have home advantage at Hampden Park.
But Donadoni said: "I am waiting calmly. I am preparing the things that need to be done. We will face this game with the maximum concentration and focus."
An Italy victory would also confirm France's spot in the finals. But anything less, would mean Raymond Domenech's side will travel to Ukraine in their final game needing a result.
Donadoni will name his squad for the double-header on Sunday evening.
Scotland squad to face Italy on November 17:
Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Sunderland), David Marshall (Norwich City), Allan McGregor (Rangers).
Defenders: Graham Alexander (Burnley), Gary Caldwell (Celtic), Christian Dailly (West Ham United), Alan Hutton (Rangers), Jay McEveley (Derby County), Stephen McManus (Celtic), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United), David Weir (Rangers).
Midfielders: Scott Brown (Celtic), Barry Ferguson (Rangers), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), Paul Hartley (Celtic), Lee McCulloch (Rangers), Stephen Pearson (Derby County), Barry Robson (Dundee United), Gary Teale (Derby County).
Forwards: Craig Beattie (West Bromwich Albion), Kris Boyd (Rangers), James McFadden (Everton), Shaun Maloney (Aston Villa), Kenny Miller (Derby County), Garry O'Connor (Birmingham City).
France squad to face Ukraine on November 21:
Goalkeepers: Sebastien Frey (Fiorentina), Mickael Landreau (Paris Saint-Germain), Ulrich Rame (Bordeaux).
Defenders: Eric Abidal (Barcelona), Francois Clerc (Olympique Lyonnais), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), William Gallas (Arsenal), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Sebastien Squillaci (Olympique Lyonnais), Lilian Thuram (Barcelona).
Midfielders: Alou Diarra (Bordeaux), Lassana Diarra (Arsenal), Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal), Claude Makelele (Chelsea), Samir Nasri (Olympique de Marseille), Jerome Rothen (Paris Saint-Germain), Jeremy Toulalan (Olympique Lyonnais).
Forwards: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton Wanderers), Hatem Ben Arfa (Olympique Lyonnais), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyonnais), Sidney Govou (Olympique Lyonnais), Thierry Henry (Barcelona), Florent Malouda (Chelsea), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich).
Source: UEFA
Alessandro Nuccorini's side will now face holders Spain in Sunday's final, after the three-time winners beat Iberian rivals and hosts Portugal in a penalty shoot-out in the other semi.
But Fabiano Assad made it 2-0 with nine minutes remaining and Russia's bid for a second title was over, while celebrations started for the Azzurri as they secure a spot in the final.
"I would like to congratulate my players for the effort they made both physically and mentally. They did not commit any mistakes in defence. This is the best match played by Italy in our whole history," he added.
Nuccorini's side now have the chance to win a second Futsal Championship in their history - the first came after a Vinicius Bacaro-inspired Azzurri lifted the trophy back in 2003. But they know it will be difficult against Spain who are reigning FIFA World Futsal champions after their 2-1 win over Italy in 2004.