The 2006 FIFA World Cup winners recorded a hard-fought 2-0 triumph over Republic of Ireland in their final Group C game on Monday to book their place in the last eight.

And AC Milan attacker Cassano was happy his side had to work for the victory.

"We don't fear anyone. The important thing was to qualify, and now the knockout stages start and we are ready to face anybody," Cassano was quoted as saying on the official UEFA website.

"The tough victories are the best ones. The most important thing was to get through the group stage.

"I couldn't wait for the final whistle in the other match (Croatia 0-1 Spain), but I was very happy when the game finally ended.

Italy will lock horns with the winner of Group D in their quarter-final clash on June 24.