Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has identified playmaker Pavel Nedved as the biggest threat in their World Cup clash against the Czech Republic on Thursday.

Marcello Lippi's side lead Group E with four points after two games and anything but a defeat against the Czechs will suffice to see them through to the second round.

The Czechs, however, must bounce back from their surprising 2-0 defeat against Ghana, for only a win will guarantee them a place in the knock-out stages.

"Nedved has a way of playing that is annoying for those who have to face him," said Cannavaro, who plays with Nedved at Juventus.

"He gives his soul and he is an example of professionalism - and he has an interior strength superior to the average."

The Azzurri know they must give a better performance than they did in their 1-1 draw against the United States but insist it will be the Czechs who have to prove their worth.

"Against the Americans we were passive and suffered their own strength," he said. "We weren't able to impose our play.

"Although we don't have the pressure to win, we will go out determined to get a victory in order to finish top of our group. We are optimistic."

Czech fans have received good news ahead of the encounter, with coach Karel Bruckner admitting that forward Milan Baros could return to play against Italy.

Baros, who was the top scorer at Euro 2004, has struggled with a foot injury since June 3.

"There is a chance Milan Baros will be fit for the Italy game," said Bruckner.

The Czechs will be without injured striker Jan Koller, though, while substitute forward Vratislav Lokvenc is suspended along with Tomas Ujfalusi.

The Italians will be without suspended midfielder Daniele De Rossi but have recovered Simone Perrotta, who sustained a minor injury during the clash against the Americans.