Italy play USA in the fourth match of Group E at the Fritz-Walter-Stadion, Kaiserslautern, with Italy looking for the win that will almost certainly guarantee their progression to the knockout stages. USA will be attempting to improve upon the disappointing 3-0 defeat against Czech Republic in the opening game of the group.

However, Italy coach Marcello Lippi is taking nothing for granted against USA: "I was expecting a closer match because the USA have made giant strides in the last five years. They reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup four years ago and came here full of confidence,” said Lippi. "If we hadn't defeated Ghana then it would be very, very difficult against the USA. Now it is just difficult."

AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who opened the scoring in Italy’s 2-0 win over Ghana, echoed the sentiments of his coach, saying: "We won't be underestimating the United States because they have to win against us or they're out," said Pirlo. "They were well beaten by the Czechs in their first match, but that will only make them more determined to get the three points."

Francesco Totti, substituted early in the second half against Ghana, is expected to be fit after recovering from a minor knee injury. Team doctor Enrico Castellacci said: "Totti bruised his left knee but he's had a scan and there's no problem."

Castellacci also said defender Gianluca Zambrotta and midfielder Gennaro Gattuso should be available after recovering from a thigh strain and leg injury respectively; keeping both players out of the Ghana game.

Unbeaten in 19 matches, Italy have never lost against the USA, winning five times and drawing twice in their seven previous encounters.

USA boss Bruce Arena is expecting a confident response to their defeat against the Czech Republic: "All we did was lose a game. The challenge in any sport is how you respond. If there is any kind of quality in the team, they'll bounce back,” said Arena. “This is the moment to shine, to step up and show what you're about. I think they are ready to give a good effort against Italy."

Arena is certain to make changes to the side to face Italy. Landon Donovan, criticised for his performance against the Czech Republic, is expected to drop into midfield with Eddie Johnson and John O'Brien possible starters.

Italy (probable): Buffon; Zambrotta, Nesta, Cannavaro, Grosso; De Rossi, Pirlo, Perrotta; Totti; Toni, Gilardino.

United States (probable): Keller; Lewis, Onyewu, Pope, Cherundolo; Convey, Reyna, O'Brien, Beasley; Donovan, Johnson.

Referee: Jorge Larrionda (Uruguay)

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