The Azzurri finished fourth in the tournament last season after winning two of their five games, but they flopped at the World Cup with a group stage exit.

BBC: Parisse handed Italy captaincy

For Sweden, who only needed a draw to advance, it was the first group stage exit at a major tournament since Euro 2000, but coach Lars Lagerback was gracious in defeat.

CNN: Rampant Russia make last-8 date with Dutch

Their introduction this season will always be remembered for Tevez's clash with Mancini in Munich, which precipitated a group-stage exit from Europe's premier club tournament.

CNN: Manchester mission: Toure's title dream