Italian strength to win through.........

Feel it may be one game too many for France, the oldest team in the tournament, tonight when they meet the Azzurri in Berlin.

Italy seem to be growing in strength round by round and produced a towering performance in the semi-final win over Germany. They are strong in every position, work tirelessly, have conceded only one own goal in six matches and can take any chances that come their way.

Almost to a man, they have played above themselves, for me, Fabio Cannavaro, who earns his 100th cap today, has been the outstanding player at this World Cup. It will be an injustice, should he not win the Golden Ball award for player of the tournament.

This is an exciting Italian team, the entire side is prepared to get forward, superbly coached by Marcello Lippi, they attack with power and variation. Totti and Pirlo can destroy any team with one pass, Grosso and Zambrotta need no urging to get forward at every opportunity.

France peaked with their wins over Spain and Brazil, in the semi-final win over Portugal they looked a little tired. Italy will not give them a moments peace, Gattuso will be snapping at Zizou's heels every time he gets the ball, Henry will not trick the Italian defence as easily as he did the Portugese.

Of course, a moments magic from Henry, Ribery or Zidane, the biggest French star of all time, playing in his last ever game, could turn the game on it's head.

However, I do not think that France will last the pace, Makele 33, Zidane 34 and Thuram 34, all wonderful players, came out of international retirement for this tournament. This Italian team of superstars with the work ethic and hunger of men that haven't eaten for a week, may make them each feel a little older.

Lippi , the master tactician, probably knows the two key French players, Thuram and Zidane better than his counterpart, having coached both for several years at Juventus. He is sure to have spotted some chinks in their play ....... if they have any !

So for me it's the Paul Newman lookalike to win the coaching plaudits, over the Eddie Jordan doppelganger, Raymond Domenech.

4 points Italy -1/4 2.20 asian line.

Good Luck.