Italy, England vying for last four
England's (left-right) Joe Hart, Martin Kelly, Wayne Rooney and Ashley Cole as England players view the Olympic Stadium in Kiev, Ukraine.
The Three Lions have only won one their last nine games against the Azzurri.
Roy Hodgson's men advanced to the knockout stage as winners of Group D after starting their campaign with a 1-1 draw against France.
They went on to beat Sweden 3-2 before securing a 1-0 win over co-hosts Ukraine.
Wayne Rooney missed the first two group matches due to suspension but returned to score the only goal against Ukraine.
Hodgson admits that the Italians will be tough opponents, although he is pleased that his side avoided a meeting with defending champions Spain.
"It has to be an advantage not to face Spain,” he said. “They are the clear favourites. They won the last World Cup and European Championships and are favourites to win this one.
“We can’t deny we would rather not play them. But I have to be very careful what I say for fear of suggesting Italy are not a very good team and worthy opponents.”
England have a full squad to choose from with the exception of Ashley Young who is doubtful for this clash after picking up an injury.
Italy on the other hand finished as runners-up in Group C after starting their campaign with consecutive 1-1 draws against Spain and Croatia.
Cesare Prandelli's men then booked their place in the quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in their last group match.
Midfielder Daniele De Rossi says he is expecting their clash against England to be a tough affair as they are a strong side.
“They have other very good players playing on the flanks and it's a really compact team,” he told the Daily Telegraph.
“They have a manager who has been managing in Italy as well, so they know how to play defensively and in attack."
Italy will be without defender Giorgio Chiellini who is suffering from a thigh injury.
The two sides last met in an international friendly in 2002 with the Italian winning 2-1.
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