Azzurri Face-Off Against Les Bleus

Come Sunday, 9th July 2006, millions of the world's population will be glued to the television to witness the final of the FIFA World Cup in Berlin.

Italy's formidable defence will come under close scrutiny from the likes of Zinadine Zidane and Thierry Henry. Azzurri's centreback Cannavaro is in fine form and was instrumental in the progress of the Italians. While Zizou looked ten years younger when he steered the French side against Brazil and Portugal. Both goalkeepers, Buffon and Barthez, looked comfortable in their custodian roles, while both sets of midfielders had proven themselves over five games.

It will be an interesting tussle, but I personally fancy the Italians...