Italy progress checked by Luxembourg

Italy's patchy form continued as they were held by Luxembourg in Perugia in their last friendly ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

After Saturday's goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland, Claudio Marchisio opened the scoring early in the first half but the Azzurri failed to capitalise on several chances to extend their lead. Cesare Prandelli's team were then punished by a Maxime Chanot header late in the second half as their winless run was extended to seven outings.

Italy broke the deadlock after eight minutes with a move started and finished by Marchisio. Picking out Mario Balotelli with a long ball, the Juventus midfielder burst into the box to head his team-mate's cross past Anthony Moras.

The Azzurri controlled possession and the midfield with Andrea Pirlo and Marco Verratti dominant. Balotelli went close twice, first shooting over with only Moras to beat then forcing the Luxembourg goalkeeper into a difficult save at his near post. The 24-year-old custodian shone again in the closing stages of the first half, palming away Andrea Pirlo's curling free-kick.

Antonio Cassano replaced Verratti early in the second half and the Parma FC forward immediately sent Balotelli through with a brilliant pass only for the striker to hit the bar. A minute later, Antonio Candreva was also denied by the frame of the goal, his header from Balotelli's right-wing centre striking the bar.

Luxembourg struggled to create but surprisingly equalised five minutes from time as Chamot headed a corner past Gianluigi Buffon. The Azzurri were desperate to regain their advantage, but Moras produced another great save from Ignazio Abate's powerful drive to earn his side a famous draw.

Italy open their World Cup campaign against England next Saturday before facing Costa Rica and Uruguay in Group D.