World Champions Italy very nearly had to share the points with Faroe Islands, ranked 185 in world rankings, following a disappointing performance in their Euro 2008 qualifying match at Tórsvøllur stadium.

Italy came into the match with a three game winning streak and many expected the world champions to win the match easily with Faroe Island losing all of their qualifying matches so far. Things looked bright at the start with Filippo Inzaghi, recalled into the national squad after his impressive performance in the Champions League final, gave them the lead in the 13th minute.

Italy had a minor scare in the first half when Tommaso Rocchi lobbed the ball towards the net, only for it to go high over the cross bar. Italy could and should have extended their lead in the 25th minute when Inzaghi rose to meet a Massimo Oddo cross. However the AC Milan striker headed the bar over the bar.

Italy then missed a host of chances to increase their lead, with Faroe Islands not able to create even a half chance during the first half. Italy finally doubled their lead three minutes into the second half when Aimo Diana crossed the ball at the far post and this time Inzaghi made no mistake to score his 25th goal for Italy.

Andrea Pirlo saw his attempt from a free kick saved by keeper Mikkelsen. With Faroe Islands not looking capable of mounting a decent attack, Italy took the foot off the pedal and were jerked awake when Rogvi Jacobsen thumped home a corner in the 77th minute.

Italy spent the next 13 minutes defending desperately and fans had a minor heart attack just seconds before the final whistle when substitute Christian Holst's was saved just in time by a diving Gianluigi Buffon. The Italians are experiencing strong criticism from the local media but coach Roberto Donadoni revealed that they got what they wanted from the match.

"What counts is the win and the three points. We had chances to score some more goals and at the end it was difficult", he said. Italy is currently at second position in the group table with 13 points from 6 matches and will face Lithuania in their next match on June 6.