Italy held 1-1 by New Zealand
NELSPRUIT: World champions Italy were held to a surprise 1-1 draw for the second time at the World Cup after coming back from a goal down against rank outsiders New Zealand on Sunday.
Italy, whose chances of reaching the last 16 now hang in the balance, went a goal down as early as the seventh minute when Shane Smeltz poked the ball home from close range after the Italian defence failed to clear a long free kick.
The world champions equalised in the 29th minute with a Vincenzo Iaquinta penalty after Daniele De Rossi had his shirt tugged in the box but despite pressing for most of the match could not find a winner.
Paraguay, who beat Slovakia 2-0 earlier on Sunday, lead Group F with four points from Italy and New Zealand on two and Slovakia on one before the final group games. AGENCIES
Italy, whose chances of reaching the last 16 now hang in the balance, went a goal down as early as the seventh minute when Shane Smeltz poked the ball home from close range after the Italian defence failed to clear a long free kick.
The world champions equalised in the 29th minute with a Vincenzo Iaquinta penalty after Daniele De Rossi had his shirt tugged in the box but despite pressing for most of the match could not find a winner.
Paraguay, who beat Slovakia 2-0 earlier on Sunday, lead Group F with four points from Italy and New Zealand on two and Slovakia on one before the final group games. AGENCIES
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