International Football: Haiti pull off shock draw against Italy

Haiti players celebrate after a goal against Italy.

Four-time world champions Italy were held to a surprise 2-2 draw against unfancied Haiti on Tuesday as the Caribbean islanders struck twice in the last 10 minutes in a friendly played at Rio de Janeiro.

The European giants are in the midst of final preparations for the Confederations Cup which begins on Saturday but Azzurri coach Cesare Prandelli paid the price for fielding a weakened line-up, as Haiti pulled off one the most unexpected results in their modest history.

Juventus midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini scored the fastest goal in Italian history when he struck after just 19 seconds and club teammate Claudio Marchisio appeared to have put Prandelli’s men in full control with a second goal 18 minutes before half-time.

However French-born Le Mans striker Jean-Eudes Maurice won a penalty with 10 minutes remaining which defender Olrish Saurel converted to give Haiti a lifeline and set up a dramatic finale.

Then with only seconds remaining, Fort Lauderdale forward Jean-Philippe Peguero banged home the equaliser.

Haiti came into the match ranked 63 in the world but are certain to climb the FIFA standings after Tuesday’s result which follows a narrow 2-1 defeat against reigning world and European champions Spain last weekend.

Their only World Cup appearance was in 1974 when former West Germany hosted the tournament and they conceded 14 goals in three games.

Brazil open the Confederations Cup on home soil against Japan on Saturday while Italy begin their campaign against Mexico at Rio on Sunday in the eight team event that also includes Spain, Uruguay, Nigeria and Tahiti.

The tournament runs from June 15 to June 30.