Three-times winners Italy were left with the draw they did not want when they were paired with Russia. But while the Italians, who have failed to qualify for the finals only once, in 1958, contemplate the unthinkable, either Croatia or Ukraine will make their first appearance after they were drawn together.

Italy's under-fire coach Cesare Maldini was trying to stay positive after learning of the tough draw. "It suits me quite well. I know very little about the Russian team but I'm still confident," he said. "We have the second game at home but at this level that's not much of an advantage."

Italy's hesitant qualifying draws in Poland and Georgia ultimately cost them dear and this time they will surely approach the first leg in Moscow in a more positive mood.

Russia lost out to Bulgaria in a weak group five but coach Boris Ignatiev is warning there is improvement coming. "We didn't fulfill our goals in qualifying but something is shaping up in Russian football which you will soon see," he said.