How they got here: Made heavier going of their group than expected but eventually finished four points clear of Wales with Serbia and Montenegro, who the Italians failed to beat either home or away, third.

Manager: Giovanni Trapattoni

Star turn: Defensively they look to be the best side in the tournament with Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta at least as good as any central partnership their rivals can field. The Italians, though, need Franceso Totti to shine if they are to go one better than four years ago and win a second European title. The Roma midfielder makes the side's attack tick and is capable scoring important goals himself.

Prospects: Have the quality to go all the way and won't be thrown by refereeing decisions here the way they were at the World Cup two years ago. Still a question mark on their ability to put teams away but should top the group after which they will be in with a big shout.