By Mohd Naufal Nur Hakim
Mohd Naufal Nur Hakim (in blue) of Meridian JC, seen here in action during the 2010 A Division Football Championship, shares his thoughts on the Italy vs New Zealand game. (Photo © Chua Yueda/Red Sports archive)
South Africa, Monday, June 21, 2010 — Much was expected of Italy after they failed to impress during their opening game against Paraguay. Coming into this game, they would have thought that New Zealand, a nation renowned for rugby rather than football, would not be a problem to overcome. Once again, however, this match provided another major surprise in a World Cup which has already witnessed countless surprises.
The key moment in this game was when New Zealand took the lead. It was poor defending from the Italians during the set-piece, considering that Italians are renowned for their defence. Their weak defending allowed Shane Smeltz to poke the ball home. From then on, New Zealand tried to keep their lead and relied on the counter-attacks.
Italy finally hit back through Vincenzo Iaquinta from the penalty spot. The pressure however was on Italy to collect the maximum three points and they continued to lay siege to the New Zealand goal.
However, New Zealand defended bravely through the heroics of their goalkeeper Mark Paston, and also through their captain, Ryan Nelsen.
Man of the Match: Mark Paston
The New Zealand goalkeeper was brilliant in goal and managed to get the better of the much-maligned Jabulani ball when others have failed. Even when he was beaten on one occasion, the post was there to save him. He made several brilliant saves to keep the Italians out, thus ensuring a historic result for the All Whites.
I cannot point out any individuals for their poor performance but instead, the whole Italian team should take the blame. When faced with a determined New Zealand defence, they certainly lacked the ideas to unlock the defence.
More News and Reactions
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New Zealand question Italy’s penalty
Italy left with work to do
Video highlights of the match
| GROUP F | P | W | D | L | F | A | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
PARAGUAY  | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | +2 | 5 |
SLOVAKIA  | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 5 | -1 | 4 |
NEW ZEALAND  | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 |
ITALY  | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 5 | -1 | 2 |
For the World Cup fixtures list with Singapore broadcast timings as well as group tables and the list of CCs with free screenings, go to: http://redsports.sg/2010-world-cup-fixtures-groups/
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