The Italian football coach Marcello Lippi says they played well, despite drawing 1-all with Paraguay in their world cup match in South Africa although his happiness was tempered by an injury to goalkeeper Gialuigi Buffon.
Buffon, Italy's first choice keeper, was replaced at halftime after aggravating a back twinge he felt earlier during the warm-up in the rain where temperatures averaged about 8 degrees celcius.
The Juventus goalkeeper, rated one of the best in the world, was replaced by Frederico Marchetti at halftime with Paraguay leading 1-nil thanks to a headed goal by Antolin Alcaraz.
Lippi's world champion side laboured, with key creative midfielder Andrea Pirlo absent through injury who is only expected to return for the third group game.
Despite a shot-shy performance and lack of penetration, the coach was pleased with his team's display.
Lippi says he was happy with their approach, they created the most opportunities in the game while denying Paraguay any clear cut chances in the second half.
