Italy
As in their first game, Italy could only manage a 1-1 draw after falling behind to a goal from a set piece and will almost certainly have to beat Slovakia on Thursday to qualify for the last sixteen.
The Azzurri were behind after only seven minutes, and although the goal by Shane Smeltz was scored from an offside position, Italy should have defended the free kick better. Italy responded well, and equalised from the penalty spot through Vincenzo Iaquinta after De Rossi had been pulled back by a defender. Another goal looked inevitable as Montolivo crashed a long range effort against the post but somehow New Zealand held on for half time.
Strangely, despite Italy's dominance, Lippi decided to make two changes at half time, replacing Gilardino and Pepe with Di Natale and Camoranesi. As a result, they lost their width and impetus and despite monopolising possession, they created little and New Zealand held on for a well earned draw, the greatest result in their footballing history.
Italy should still manage to beat Slovakia to qualify but they have certainly disappointed in both games so far. Pirlo will hopefully be back for that game and, for me, should replace the ineffective Marchisio with Montolivo moving out to the left and Pepe staying on the right. Fingers crossed on Thursday that Lippi gets it right and Italy put in a strong performance.
