World champions Italy, traditional slow starters, began the defence of their World Cup title by coming from a goal down to earn a 1-all draw against Paraguay in their Group F clash in cape Town.
Daniele De Rossi equalised for the Italians in the 63rd minute, stabbing home from close range after Paraguayan keeper Justo Villar failed to cut out a Simone Pepe corner.
Paraguay had taken a surprise lead in the 39th minute when Antolin Alcaraz rose over the Italian defence to head in a free kick.
New Zealand meet Slovakia in the other opening game in Group F in Rustenburg tonight.
