Cannavaro surprised by Scots

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."