SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) -Italy, with half its top lineup out with injuries, was held to a 0-0 tie by Bulgaria on Saturday in a World Cup qualifier.

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The reigning world champions have seven points from three games in Group 8. Bulgaria has two points from two games.

``The guys played with authority and good personality,'' Italy coach Marcello Lippi said. ``We tried everything we could to win. But (Bulgaria) has good players and we're content with this result.''

Bulgaria came close to scoring in the 13th minute at Vasil Levski Stadium when Manchester United's Dimitar Berbatov took a cross from Blagoi Georgiev, but his strong volley was blocked by Italy goalkeeper Marco Amelia.

In the 59th, Alberto Gilardino's header from a corner kick was saved by Dimitar Ivankov. A few minutes later the striker - who has seven goals for Fiorentina this season - dribbled past the defense before shooting narrowly wide. In the 79th, Daniele De Rossi's long, dipping shot sailed just over the bar.

``The game was equal and we are glad we achieved this result against the world champions,'' Dimitar Berbatov said.

Luca Toni, who came in to replace Gilardino, will miss Italy's game against Montenegro on Wednesday after a second booking.