Bortolami was delighted with his team's efforts in Cardiff

"We have to be pleased we got a draw in Cardiff against the Six Nations champions," the lock told BBC Sport.

"We felt that the game was there to win in the second half, but we played 100%, that's the Italy we want to see.

"Our last game is against Scotland in Rome. We feel that we have been improving game-by-game, our confidence is high and we can win that one."

Match report: Wales 18-18 Italy

Asked whether the off-field distractions surrounding former Wales coach Mike Ruddock had affected the home side's performance, Bortolami said:

"No I don't think so. Wales played very well but we defended very well. It was a very good match."

Italy coach Pierre Berbizier was delighted with the character his side showed in Cardiff.

"This gives a mark of respect for the Italian team on the international scene," he said.

"To hold Wales here is a big achievement and we now have the respect of the other teams. We are now showing what we are capable of achieving.

"We played with great spirit and even came close to winning it. This is very encouraging."