GENEVA, May 31 (SW) - Daniel Gygax's first-half equalizer earned Switzerland a 1-1 raw with Italy as both teams continued their preparations for the World Cup, which begins next week.

Just ten minutes in, striker Alberto Gilardino fired the Azzurri into the lead after receiving a cross from Fabio Grosso, but Gygax hit a cracking equalizer just after the half-hour mark with a shot from distance that beat Gianluigi Buffon.

The second half was marked by more attacking play by the Italians, but subsitute goalkeeper Fabio Coltorti - making only his second international appearance - twice saved efforts from Vincenzo Iaquinta to preserve the 1-1 score.

Switzerland next face China on Saturday while Italy have another tough warmup against Ukraine on Friday before both set off for Germany.