Conte pleased to avoid Germany

Italy coach Antonio Conte is looking forward to facing Spain in qualifying for the 2018 World Cup and is happy his side avoided Germany.

Conte's men were placed with Spain, Albania, Israel, Macedonia and Liechtenstein in Group G of the qualifiers and Italy's boss feels his side will rise to the occasion against Vicente del Bosque's team of champions.

"It is a tough group, however, I prefer to think that Spain could boost us," Conte said after the draw in St Petersburg.

"I don't like the word 'difficult'. It will be a stimulating challenge against one of the strongest in the world. I am sure that we can do well and we can have good performances.

"Spain is not the best draw, but Germany would have been worse."

Having last tasted victory in a friendly against Albania in November last year, Italy started 2015 with three consecutive draws -- against Bulgaria, England and Croatia -- before losing 1-0 to Portugal in a friendly in June.

Those results leave Italy in 17th in FIFA's rankings and Conte admits that the group will be no walkthrough for his side.

"In theory, Italy and Spain are the favourite teams in the group," Conte said.

"However, Albania have started playing really well in the Euro qualifying, so they have chances to qualify.

"On paper, Italy and Spain are the best teams, however, it will be decided on the pitch."

Italy have not defeated Spain since 2011, while the Spaniards have won six of their past nine meetings stretching back to 2000.