Italy were described by some as the worst team ever to defend a World Cup. For an hour against Paraguay they certainly matched that description, before they done enough, as they usually do, to grind out a result.

Of course it’s always unwise to judge teams, especially experienced tournament sides, after the first game and the Italians are almost certainly going to qualify from Group F with games against Slovakia and New Zealand to come.

 

But the Azzurri will be anxious for Andrea Pirlo to inject some much needed class and energy into a flat looking midfield when he returns from injury.

Another worry is the fitness of Gianluigi Buffon, who had to be replaced at by Cagliari’s unconvincing goalkeeper Federico Marchetti due to a back problem, although the Juve star should make a quick recovery.

Italy’s real concern is if key members of the squad are unavailable when there is no margin for error because at the moment, their fringe players don’t look up for the challenge.