Giovanni Trapattoni is determined to head into his eagerly-anticipated clash with native country Italy sitting proudly at the top of World Cup qualifying Group 8.

The Republic of Ireland boss, who celebrates his 70th birthday tomorrow on St Patrick's Day, has guided his side to within goal difference of the world champions with the pair locked together on 10 points after four games.

Trapattoni will go head-to head with compatriot Marcelo Lippi when the teams meet for the first time in the group in Bari on April 1, four days after Ireland entertain third-placed Bulgaria at Croke Park while the Italians face a tricky trip to Montenegro.

He is determined to fly out of Dublin with a fourth victory in five qualifiers under his belt knowing that a run of three away games which starts in Italy will have a major say in his side's hopes of reaching next summer's finals in South Africa.

Trapattoni said: "So far in this group, Bulgaria have drawn all of their three World Cup qualifying matches.

"I have no doubt they will be invigorated by the appointment of their new manager, Stanimir Stoilov, and they will come to Croke Park looking for a win to kick-start their World Cup qualifying campaign.

"Bulgaria have a strong tradition of football in their country with many well-known players in their squad, so we are under no illusion as to the task that awaits us on March 28.

"This game represents a real opportunity to open a significant gap at the top of the table in Group 8.

"For the next six months, we will be playing away, so strong support in this last home game until October will be vital.

"Every point gained will be valuable in the race to qualify for South Africa."

Ireland have completed a double over Georgia and beaten Cyprus at Croke Park, but had to settle for a point after a hard-fought battle with Montenegro in Podgorica.

Italy have won in Cyprus and beaten Georgia and Montenegro at home, but could only draw 0-0 with Bulgaria in Sofia.

The Bulgarians are currently a distant third in the group after successive draws in Montenegro and Georgia, as well as their shut-out against the current holders.

However, their hopes of finishing in the top two would be dealt a major blow if they left Dublin with nothing to show for their efforts.

Trapattoni today named a 26-man squad for the two games, and there were few surprises.

He kept faith with the 25 men he initially selected for last month's 2-1 win over Georgia, and has added uncapped Celtic defender Darren O'Dea, who scored in his club's CIS League Cup final win over Rangers yesterday.