World number 52 Giorgi, 26, was on top of her game as she powered past Ekaterina Makarova of Russia 6-3, 6-4 as she set up a showdown against Williams on Centre Court.

Giorgi had only reached the last 16 at Wimbledon once before, in 2012, but she looked the part as she took the game to Makarova, ranked 36 and no. 1 in Ladies Doubles, producing five aces, some booming groundstrokes and fierce volleys in an excellent all-round performance on Court 12.

"I played a great match," she told a packed press conference, "very consistent and I played my game to a very good level."

Asked about her recent lack of progress up the rankings, she responded: "I've had many injuries over the past three years and many physical problems.

"This year I have more continuity. I'm an aggressive player and like to go forward and attack.

"My serve is now my strength and I have played some great matches this year, and I hope to keep going."

Williams, 36, eased past Russian qualifier Evgeniya Rodina 6-2, 6-2 and she hopes she can capitalise on the top 10 seeds crashing out as she goes in search of what would be a 24th Grand Slam title and her first since giving birth last September.

The former Wimbledon winner says she is looking forward to meeting Giorgi - an opponent she has a 100 per cent record against.

"Camila has a powerful game. She is small but very aggressive for her size. She moves well on grass and I have watched her play a lot. I kind of know her game and am looking forward to the match."

Giorgi insists she will "focus on her own game" and she is "really pleased" with the way she is playing.