The defending champs could like the French in 2002, be in real danger of crash out at the group stage itself.
There was nothing very reassuring in their display against Mexico and their back line led by Fabio Cannavaro looked lethargic and flat footed.
Cannavaro was subbed by Fernando Bochetti in the 83rd minute and walked back slowly to the bench looking exhausted and out of breath.
El Tri on the other hand looked sharp. Giovani Dos Santos looked none the worse for wear after that unseemly meltdown by his father over his brother being dropped by Javier Aguirre. His cheeky chip found Carlos Vela for a nice little finish. Cuauhtemoc Blanco isolated Alberto Medina with the Italians nowhere in sight and the Chivas striker streaked off untouched for Mexico’s second goal.
Italy claimed a consolation goal after Fabio Quagliarella’s corner was volleyed straight into the upright by Vincenzo Iaquinta. The ball came free to Leonardo Bonucci who tapped the ball home.
Mexico are in Group A with SA, Uruguay, and France. Not an easy group but they have to fancy their chances with their recent performances. We might be talking of Giovani Dos Santos as a legend in the years to come.
The Italians are in Group F which is relatively weak with Paraguay, Slovakia, and New Zealand. The Italians are odds on favourites to top the group but at this point a second place finish looks awfully good.