Giovanni Trapattoni warns that Finland could damage Italy's qualifying hopes and could start Stefano Fiore in midfield.
The Scandinavians are now in third place, just one point behind the Azzurri, after beating Serbia & Montenegro 3-0.
“We knew from our first encounter that they were a difficult opponent,” said Trap. “Now more than ever we need a fantastic performance on Wednesday.”
Italy beat Finland 2-0 back in March, but travelling to Helsinki at this late stage of the season could prove tricky.
“We must make the most of our strengths, just like we did when Finland were defeated in Palermo. We have the quality to win.”
At first the Finland result was considered a great boost for the Azzurri, but Serbia & Montenegro have struggled somewhat in recent months.
“I personally would have preferred a draw between those two teams. I knew the Scandinavian sides were tough.”
“The former Yugoslavs were playing without Dejan Stankovic and Mateja Kezman,” noted Trap of yesterday’s 3-0 defeat, “but I saw a good Finland outfit.”
The Coach is forced to make changes as Mauro Camoranesi looks unlikely to feature on Wednesday due to a calf problem.
Training sessions suggest that Lazio midfielder Fiore will take his place on the right flank, moving Juve’s versatile Gianluca Zambrotta to a left-back role.
The 4-2-3-1 formation has been successful since it was introduced and will be used again with Finland.
Alessandro Del Piero can take the wide left position alongside Francesco Totti and Fiore behind lone striker Bernardo Corradi.
Probable line-up: Buffon; Panucci, Nesta, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Perrotta, C Zanetti; Fiore, Totti, Del Piero; Corradi