England against Italy. A tough opening game for both of these teams. After the result from the earlier game in the group, both teams wanted to get off the the best of starts.
In a very humid stadium both teams exploded into action, and England went straight on the front foot with a thunderbolt from Sterling just inches wide. Italy controlled the main possession throughout the half and their anchor Pirlo proved why he is still the main catalyst of the Italian side. From a quick corner Italy scored a stunning goal from outside of the box, but they always say the worst time to concede is straight after you score and it was proved right with England's equaliser from close range. Italy hit the post in the last seconds of the half just to ensure that they remained on top for the 1st half.
Not the best of starts for England in the 2nd half as Italy punished them with a quick break down the right for Balotelli to nod in from close. England again nearly responded. The three lions tried to force the equaliser, and their possession increased, however a solid defence proved difficult to break. As the 90 minutes came to a close Italy soaked up more England pressure and very near snatched a 3rd from a brilliant free kick from Pirlo.
Another fantastic group game for the neutrals and if this continues, we are all in for a treat.
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