MTNFootball

Coming into the UEFA Euro 2012 campaign, Italy will be looking to continue with their rejuvenated run of form, which saw them concede just two goals in the qualifiers.

They will kick off their tournament against defending champions Spain.

Drawn in Group C alongside the 2010 FIFA World Cup winners, a tricky Croatia and Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland, the Azzurri will be looking to put aside their fluctuating form ever since their FIFA World Cup success back in 2006.

Following a disastrous 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Cesare Prandelli was handed the reins from Marcello Lippi and has since instilled a new lease of life into his players.

After finishing bottom in their group during the World Cup, the Azzurri have their work cut out for them if they hope to redeem themselves.

Italy progressed through the qualifiers with two games to spare, ended top of their group and broke their own national record of 26 points in ten games.

But the Euro finals have often proved to be an unwanted distraction for the players in the summer holidays, so the fans will be hoping that the fresh focus Prandelli brought to his squad during the qualifiers will be on show as they look to secure their second Euro championship.