Cesare Prandelli's start as Italy coach hasn't been exotically exciting but the former world champions have been more or less consistent and have shown improvement too since their disastrous 2010 World Cup finals.
Their 0-0 draw with Northern Ireland in Belfast on Friday evening saw the Azzurri top Group C with seven points from three matches. It wasn't a particularly impressive performance from Italy but for a side who are in transition, a draw away from home is a point gained rather than two points lost.
However, Prandelli should know that they must try to improvise on that performance and defeat Serbia in Genoa on Tuesday evening. The Eagles lost to Estonia at home on Friday and the former Fiorentina manager has warned his Italy players that wounded Serbia will be looking to bounce back, saying, "That result makes this game all the more difficult because they cannot make a mistake tomorrow.
"I would have preferred to have avoided a hurt Serbia. But the fact that they have lost against Estonia is a sign that we must be prepared for surprises in this qualifying round because our group is very even.''
Trying To Fly Again
Serbia suffered arguably the worst defeat of Matchday Three in the Euro 2012 qualifiers on Friday as they went down 3-1 to Estonia in Belgrade. That defeat has dragged the Whites to fourth in the table with four points from three matches.
Vladimir Petrovic's side will be desperate for a much improved performance against Italy on Tuesday and more importantly will be keen for a win, which isn't very likely. However, the 55-year-old has demanded that his players step up their game and show their class and calibre.
"This was a real surprise for us and for our supporters,'' he said. "I believe we can improve in Italy provided we limit mistakes. I'm optimistic."
TEAM NEWS
Italy
Daniele De Rossi has already been ruled out of the match after he injured his thigh in a training session. Daniele Gastaldello could be given the nod in the starting line-up.
Serbia
Petrovic could be tempted to make changes to his line-up after Serbia's defeat to Estonia last week. Centre-back Nemanja Vidic is suspended and he is likely to be replaced by Neven Subotic in the line-up.
Prediction
Serbia do have the potential to make it tough for Italy and are also the Azzurri's bogey team. Even though they lost to Estonia in Belgrade on Friday, the Eagles have a formidable squad. Italy have been progressing steadily under coach Cesare Prandelli but may just have to settle for a draw.
Italy 1-1 Serbia 
