Italians Stunned By Kiwis

Kiwi delight

Well, at least England aren't as bad as Italy (yet).

The reigning world champions were held to a shock 1-1 draw with New Zealand to leave their hopes of qualifying for the second round hanging by a thread.

The Kiwis even took the lead in the seventh minute, when Shane Smeltz prodded home after Fabio Cannavaro's slip in he box.

Italy levelled from the penalty spot, with Vincenzo Iaquinta converting just before the half hour.

The Azzuri continued to pile on the pressure but were kept at arms length by an inspired New Zealand defence, led by the superb Ryan Nielsen.

The drawm leaves both New Zealand and Italy level on two points each in Group F, and the champions need to win their final game against Slovakia to guarantee qualification.