Italy went to World Cup at 2010 out of win to draw 1-1 with Paraguay opening the match second half time equaliser by Daniele De Rossi after the South Americans had looked like pulling off a shock victory in their World Cup.
Alcaraz thumped in a header after 39 minutes after the World champions had begun their defence with a desperately flat Group F display in the pouring Cape Town rain. The Italians were slightly better in the second half, levelling after another goalkeeping blunder in the 63rd minute, but did precious little to change the pessimistic view of their fans and media who sent them to South Africa with a verdict of no chance.
Paraguay had beaten Brazil and Argentina in qualifying so had no need to be in fear of the holders but their dire World Cup record where they have not got past the second round in seven attempts, going out in the group stage four times, was always there in the background.
its most valuable player, goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, after the first half. The 32 year old Buffon was removed due to a back injury, replaced by inexperienced backup Federico Marchetti.De Rossi made up for the opening goal, sliding in toredirect a corner kick from Simone Pepe. It was asolid start for the midfielder who was suspended for four games during Italy’s victorious 2006 run afterbloodying the face of U.S. forward Brian McBride with a sharp elbow.After a day of often intense rain, the match kicked off under a drizzle, leaving the field slippery. Temperatures stood at 46 degrees, but the swirlingwinds coming off the ocean made it feel colder.
Little was forthcoming but they levelled when Justo Villar flapped and missed a Simone Pepe corner and De Rossi stuck out a foot to steer the ball into the empty net from close range. Either side of the equaliser Paraguay could have had a second as Enrique Vera and substitute Jonathan Santana shot wide when well placed. Italy roused themselves in the last 10 minutes in search of a winner but stout defending saw Paraguay hold on for deserved point.