The Azzurri takes on Austria, currently ranked 23rd in the world, on Saturday at London’s Wembley Stadium in the Euro 2020 Round of 16.
Austria got through their group as runners-up behind the Netherlands, while Italy won all three group games without conceding a goal.
But Mancini praised Austria, with a line-up that includes the likes of David Alaba, Julian Baumgartlinger, Valentino Lazaro, Marcel Sabitzer and Marko Arnautovic.
“We need a great performance, as Austria have quality, they are aggressive and we cannot get anything wrong,” Mancini said at Friday’s press conference.
“That’s the beauty of these tournaments, you have to win and there’s no other option.
“We have to continue playing our football, hopefully for another four games at Euro 2020.”
Mancini has a few selection headaches with Giorgio Chiellini back in the mix but likely not fully fit, while Marco Verratti impressed against Wales in his return from a knee injury and may start ahead of Manuel Locatelli who scored a brace against Switzerland.
We can count on talented players, so we are not worried,” Mancini said.
“Whoever plays will continue the good work weve done so far. Well see tomorrow for the doubts, but weve basically got our team.
“Its a pleasure for a coach to be given this difficulty of choosing between great players, especially knowing there are 11 who start, but the others are all ready to come in and change the game. That is a luxury for us.”