World Cup 2010 Betting - Italy vs New Zealand - Result

Story by Matt Knowles on 2010-06-20 16:01:53

World Champions Italy were held to a draw by one of the least fancied sides at the World Cup today as New Zealand put in one of the best defensive displays of the tournament so far.

Italy started the game as huge favourites at 1/4 (bet £40 to win £10 profit) with Coral, while New Zealand were as long as 18/1 with BetVictor and Canbet.

Last time the two sides met, New Zealand took the lead twice in a thrilling 4-3 win for the Azzurri and today Marcello Lippi`s side were equally unconvincing.

The All-Whites took the lead somewhat fortuitously as Shane Smeltz, a 25/1 shot to open the scoring appeared to be offside as he slotted past Marchetti in the Italy goal. However, despite applying almost constant pressure, the favourites could not find a way through until Danielle De Rossi was fouled in the area.

Iaquinta tucked the penalty way but that was the end of the scoring and the game finished 1-1, a 12/1 shot with most bookmakers.

The defending Champions were 16/1 to lift the World Cup going into the tournament but back-to-back draws have seen them pushed out to 20/1 with Victor Chander as Europe`s top sides continue to struggle in their opening games.

World Cup winner betting odds

Other sports betting news and previews