Going into this weekend’s World Cup qualifiers, the two teams were level at the top of Group 8, but now the Azzurri are two points clear thanks to their 2-0 victory in Montenegro.

The Republic of Ireland scored in the opening minute against Bulgaria at Croke Park only to be pegged back 1-1 by a Kevin Kilbane own goal.

"We could have scored a second goal and won the game," said Trapattoni. "Bulgaria had lots of possession but we had the best situations.

“They kept the ball well but [Kevin] Doyle, [Robbie] Keane and [Aiden] McGeady all had chances."

Poor defending let Ireland down in this match, but goalscorer Dunne is not worried ahead of the trip to Bari’s Stadio San Nicola.

"We have said all along we do not fear Italy, so we feel we can go there on Wednesday and get a result," assured the Manchester City man.

"We started really well and really should have been pushing on. I think we had to keep the seven-point gap on Bulgaria - minimum.

"We are disappointed not to get the points, but we are still in a good position.”

Mon 0-2 Ita: Pazzini conquers Podgorica
Andrea Pirlo's penalty and a header from debutant Giampaolo Pazzini gave Italy a precious 2-0 win away to Montenegro. More and Highlights

Lippi only half-happy
Marcello Lippi feels the second half performance made the difference in Montenegro and looks ahead to Ireland with a two-point advantage. More

Pazzini: My magic moment
Giampaolo Pazzini admits “I can't quite believe it” after scoring on his senior international debut. More

Pirlo explains cheeky spot-kick
Andrea Pirlo explains why he decided to cheekily chip a decisive penalty away to Montenegro and looks forward to facing Giovanni Trapattoni. More

Toto awaits test results
Antonio Di Natale confirms he is afraid the knee injury sustained on international duty is serious. More