Italy tied with Paraguay today after another world cup opener ends 1-1.  Paraguay lead the World Cup Defending Champions Italy by 1 to 0  at halftime. The pouring rain & wind made it difficult to showcase any skill on the ball.

 

Italy dominated possession, but when it came to scoring their forwards disappointed.

Gilardino was nearly always second to the ball as he tried to pull something out of the hat in vain. It was Paraguay who played with spirit and heart and refused to let in numerous Italian attempts at goal.
 

Paraguay scored in the 39th minute with a header by Antolin Alcara.  

The ball & Alcara soared above Fabio Cannavaro and Daniele De Rossi to head home a long free kick from Aureliano Torres. 

 Italy, the 2006 champions, returned with determination in the second half, and De Rossi eventually scored in the 63rd minute just getting the ball around goalkeeper Justo Villa who came out to punch the ball and missed completely. De Rossi was the quickest as he pinched the ball in the back of the net between two defenders. Famed Italian goal keeper, Gianluigi Buffon was subbed out at half time with a ham string injury which is remarkable as he barely even touched the ball. 

Italy like England failed to impress against a lesser adversary with a lot of heart. Both Italy and England have much to improve but should have no problems getting into the next round.