The Italian Football Federation say that UEFA have snubbed their attempts to mark the deaths of 39 countrymen killed in the Heysel Disaster.

The Italians, who play Belgium tonight in the renamed and renovated King Baudouin Stadium, intend to mark their first visit to the ground since the tragedy in 1985 by placing a floral tribute on the centre circle before the match.

Italy had hoped that UEFA would sanction a minute's silence before the Group B meeting against one of Euro 2000's co-hosts. But their pleas fell on deaf ears, Now the IFF will ask Spanish referee Aranda Encinar to delay the kick-off for five minutes so Italy captain Paolo Maldini can mark the moment.

A statement released by the Italians yesterday said: 'In the absence of any action from UEFA we believe it is right to pay a tribute to those who died at what was the Heysel Stadium.

'We want to make a floral tribute and we hope UEFA will accept this. But there will be no minute's silence.' Almost 50,000 supporters are expected to fill the rebuilt stadium where, 15 years ago, Juventus fans were crushed to death when a wall collapsed before the European Cup Final against Liverpool.

An Italian spokesman added: 'It is going to be an emotional return for us. It is the first time any of us have been back since that terrible night and we are determined to show our respects.'