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#3 Italy (2010 FIFA World Cup)
The Azzurri entered the 2010 FIFA World Cup as defending champions. After the historic night in Berlin four years ago Italians started their title defense against Paraguay in Cape Town. Paraguay were leading at halftime however a second-half goal by De Rossi brought Italy right back into the game. The game ended as a 1-1 draw and it looked as if Italians needed to put in some extra effort if they wanted to make it to the knockout stage of the World Cup.
In the next game against an inexperienced New Zealand side Italians were expected to get their World Cup campaign back on track. However, the Italians were in for a surprise as New Zealand took an early lead through a goal by Shane Smeltz. Italy were awarded a penalty in the 29th minute of the game which was successfully scored by striker Vincenzo LaQuinta. The game once again ended as a draw and Italy's prospects of making into the knockout stage looked slim.
In the final group game against Slovakia, the Italian defense was exposed as they were 2 goals down with only 10 minutes remaining. A goal by Di Natale in the 81st minute gave Italians some hope, however, a third Slovak goal made it impossible for the Italians to make a comeback. The game ended 3-2 and even Fabio Quagliarella's goal in the dying moments of the game couldn't save the Italian dream.
With this, both the winners and runners-up of the 2006 FIFA World Cup were out of contention and it was confirmed that the world will witness a new champion.
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