Analysis:

Both sides are unbeaten in Group 8 as Italy are ahead of Republic of Ireland by 4 points and while the host try to upset the Odds knowing that they need just two more points from their final two games if they are to settle for second place.

Marcello Lippi's Italy side knows a point is good enough for them to secure automatic qualification. Giovanni Trapattoni will face his compatriot and must also beat the reigning world champions if they are to stage a late turnaround to win the group and gain automatic qualification to South Africa.

Republic of Ireland will also keep a close watch on Bulgaria's result away to Cyprus with second place not yet confirmed. A loss to Italy here would allow the Bulgarians a way back into the play-off.

With regards to the team news, winger Damien Duff who plays for Fulham has been ruled out of this match after picking up a calf injury during the Cottagers' defeat to Arsenal. Hull City wide-man Stephen Hunt could be given the task of sharing responsibility with Celtic's Aiden McGeady, but Liam Lawrence is a strong contender after his stunning free-kick winner in last month's friendly win over South Africa.

Glenn Whelan is liekly to partner Keith Andrews in the centre of midfield since the likes of Darron Gibson (groin) and Steven Reid (Achilles) being forced to pull with injuries from the squad. Richard Dunne (ankle) and Sean St Ledger (neck) both missed training on Wednesday but are expected to recover in time to resume their partnership in defence.

Kevin Kilbane will start at left back and will earn his 99th cap in this match. Manchester United's John O' Shea will start on the right back. Shay Given will start in goal. Upfront we can expect to see captain Robbie Keane partnering Kevin Doyle and the Wolves striker is on form scoring for both club and country. Caleb Folan will miss out with injury.

As for Italy, Marcello Lippi will name a side that is dominated by his former players from his old club Juventus. Last month when they beat Bulgaris saw his starting with 7 players from the Juventus side and we can expect something similar here tonight.

The visitors will miss the services of Captain Fabio Cannavaro misses out through suspension but Nicola Legrottaglie will start at the heart of defence together with Giorgio Chiellini.

Italy will also miss the services of Claudio Marchisio after he left the side due to a knee injury on Thursday. Fabio Grosso who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, will keep his place on the left while Gianluigi Buffon, striker Vincenzo Iaquinta and winger Mauro Camoranesi will all feature in this match.

One player not from the Juventus side to start will be Milan captain Gennaro Gattuso who did not feature against Bulgaria and Georgia last time out. Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi will start in midfield and earn his 50th cap for the national side.

Take Republic Ireland to hold Italy to a draw in this match.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Pick :

Draw Match 1-1

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Go for this match to end in a draw.

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Republic of Ireland and accept the 1/4 ball here.