Fiorentina striker Alberto Gilardino says his Italy equaliser last night was the most important of his career. The substitute scored at the 89th minute to seal a 2-2 draw that puts the Azzurri in the World Cup.

"It was a tough game right to the end. It was a struggle, but that makes our qualification all the more enjoyable," said Gilardino.

The Azzurri have booked their trip to South Africa, where they will defend the title won in Germany.

"This squad can target anything it wants, especially as the block from the 2006 World Cup is still mainly there with some fascinating young players in there too.

"We know it's going to be difficult, but we believe we can have our say."