Turin, Sep 8 (DPA) Fans warmly welcomed Marcello Lippi Tuesday during a training session the Azzurri squad held at Turin's Stadio Olimpico ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria, the ANSA news agency reported.

A win over Bulgaria Wednesday would push the world champions four points clear of Ireland in Group 8.

The race for first place, which directly qualifies for the 2010 World Cup next summer in South Africa, is likely to be settled in mid-October, when the Irish squad welcome Italy ahead of the last qualifier.

About 2,000 fans exchanged greetings with the 2006 world champion coach who steered home side Juventus for eight years in two different stints, winning five national titles, one Champions League and one Intercontinental Cup.