Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro insists luck has had nothing to do with his team reaching the World Cup quarter-finals despite its controversial last minute penalty to beat the Socceroos.

The Azzurri, who take on Ukraine on Friday in Hamburg in the last eight, were rescued by a Francesco Totti's conversion after defender Fabio Grosso toppled over Lucas Neill and the referee pointed to the penalty spot.

The Socceroos, and many international observers, were adamant the incident didn't warrant a penalty.

"I am annoyed with what has been said regarding the game against Australia," said the Italy captain.

"People claim we were lucky to go through - but if there was a team that was fortunate during the game it was Australia, who played with 11 men against 10 for most of the second half.

"We actually had more goalscoring chances than they did."

The Juventus central defender has been one of the most solid players in Marcello Lippi's side in Germany.

Cannavaro's contribution has been crucial for the Azzurri, who go into the quarter-finals with just one goal conceded after four games played.

He said: "There's no particular secret. I try to train well every day, and that allows me to be in top condition.

"Right now I am very calm and I'm fired up to help my team go far in this World Cup."

It is team spirit, however, that is Italy's main strength - according to their captain.

"We always try to give 100 per cent on the pitch," said Cannavaro.

"Sometimes results come our way - and other times they don't.

"What I really like about this team is the fact that we give everything in every game - even those who come on as substitutes."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP