Italy's World Cup preparations have got off to an unspectacular start as they were held to a goalless draw by the Republic of Ireland at Craven Cottage this evening.

Cesare Prandelli's men began the match strongly and almost took the lead inside five minutes when Claudio Marchisio's effort from range was tipped wide by David Forde.

However, the Azzurri were soon dealt a blow as Riccardo Montolivo was stretchered off, and that seemed to spark Ireland into life as both Anthony Pilkington and David Meyler saw efforts denied by Salvatore Sirigu.

Martin O'Neill's side continued to push for the opening goal, and they almost got it shortly after the half-hour mark when a good move resulted in Stephen Ward flashing a dangerous ball across the face of goal, but it was just too far in front of his teammates.

They threatened again just two minutes later as Aiden McGeady stood the ball up to the back post for Shane Long, but his header was saved by Sirigu.

The Italian keeper was called into action again at the start of the second half, denying Long once more after the Hull City striker had been slipped through by Wes Hoolahan.

Pilkington was the next to threaten for Ireland as he cut inside from the left before drilling his strike narrowly past the far post.

Italy started to come into the game more as the half wore on, with Leonardo Bonucci and Marchisio both coming close with efforts soon after the hour mark.

Ireland came inches away from finally breaking the deadlock with a little over 10 minutes remaining as Stephen Quinn's effort smashed against the bar, while McGeady's rebound was saved by Sirigu.

Neither side could conjure up another chance in the closing stages as they were forced to settle for a share of the spoils in West London.