A keen contest is expected when Alex McLeish’s Scotland takes on Roberto Donadoni’s world champions Italy in a Euro 2008 qualifier in Bari on Wednesday.

McLeish, who began his career in charge of the Scots with a 2-1 win against Georgia on Saturday, feels a point would make him feel happy as his team sits at the top of Group B on 12 points same as France while Italy trail by five points.

"I don't think many people would bet on us winning this game and to stop Italy we will have to be at our very best," McLeish told a news conference on Tuesday.

"It's a massive challenge as we are playing against some world class players and Serie A is one of the best leagues in world, so we are under no illusions.

"But we are confident. No Scottish team has taken a point from a qualifying match in Italy, and we would like to make history."

Donadoni meanwhile is under pressure to deliver, and some media reports suggested the former AC Milan and Italy midfielder could be sacked if the Azzurri lose on Wednesday.

"It's a massive game and it would be a mistake to risk everything and be overly committed," he said.

"We have to play with our heads and with great conviction, but we also have to be patient."

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