World Cup

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World Cup | Qualifiers

Sep 10, 2013 at 7.45pm UK

Italy
2-1
Czech Republic

Chiellini (52'), Balotelli (56' pen.)

FT(HT: 0-1)

Kozak (19')
Kolar (89')

Cesare Prandelli wants World Cup spot secured

By Liam Power, Reporter | 10 September 2013

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli challenges his side to secure World Cup qualification with victory over the Czech Republic in Turin tonight.

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has challenged his side to remain consistent until the end and secure World Cup qualification with victory over the Czech Republic tonight.

The Azzurri will confirm their spot in next summer's South American showpiece with maximum points against the Czechs after edging Bulgaria 1-0 in Palermo last Friday.

Prandelli has conceded that he expected a much sterner test in a group featuring Denmark and Armenia, but remains adamant that he respects the Czechs and expects a tough test in Turin this evening.

He told reporters: "This is an important game for us, we know that a good result will see us at the World Cup.

"We have great respect for the opponents though. We know they can attack the spaces well and have a midfield of excellent quality. We'll have to be focused for the entire game.

"We never thought we'd be in this position in the group at the start of the campaign. The Eastern teams are a lot stronger than they were a few years ago. But we have built this qualification on consistency."

Luca Antonelli and Ignazio Abate have joined a lengthy injury list for Italy after picking up injuries against Bulgaria, but Pablo Osvaldo is back from suspension and fighting for a recall.