Group F – The favorites at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
Italy
Realistically, the Azzurri have absolutely every reason to go ahead for a 100% record in their group stage run. The 2006 World Cup winners remained undefeated the whole of their qualification for the tournament, and for that reason, they were able to keep their high value by grabbing automatic tickets. Italy coach Marcello Lippi possesses an “indestructible” psychology, refusing to believe that their dream of equaling Brazil – in terms of World Cup trophies won – can be shattered by obstacles. The title holders will be assisted with the services of experts like Gianluigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, and Andrea Pirlo.
Paraguay
Among the 4 teams in Group F, Paraguay are the side that look more likely to finish as second best. The Guaranies dealt quite well with pressure during their South American 2010 World Cup campaign. They escaped the play-offs by qualifying in third position – or a point behind Brazil. Paraguay know how difficult their first meeting in the tournament against top seeds Italy will be, but for sure, a success in this tie will be the key to greater achievements during the competition. This idea was confirmed by their manager Gerardo Martino, who will only please the nation behind him by wisely using the aid of his star players Paulo da Silva, and Roque Santa Cruz – bearing in mind that his striker Cabanas may not be present in South Africa due to his accident in January.
Group F – The underdogs at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
Slovakia
This is the first participation of Slovakia in the World Cup competition since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia. In all probability, using this occasion to make history will be their main aim when they temporarily settle in South Africa this summer. However, the Repre face a huge problem. As new comers in the tournament, it is clear that they have no experience from the past, from which they could have then learnt. Apparently, self-belief will be the source of a fruitful campaign which could let them emerge as a surprise package – continuing from where they started through a satisfying qualification road.
New Zealand
The 2008 OFC Nations Cup winners New Zealand are taking the Oceanian zone by storm, but on a global level, it is a different story for them altogether. The All Whites’ terrible moments in the 2009 Confederations Cup in South Africa truly showed how unprepared the country was for the 2010 World Cup. But typically, the 1-year gap between the two major competitions should serve as an extensive reshuffling session for New Zealand. As they seek for respect from the world's top teams, the All Whites will do whatever it takes to pose dangers to their counterparts.
Group F – The players to watch at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
Italy: Gianluigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Andrea Pirlo, Giampaolo Pazzini, Alberto Gilardino.
Paraguay: Claudio Morel Rodríguez, Paulo da Silva, Roque Santa Cruz.
Slovakia: Stanislav Šesták, Vladimir Weiss (son of coach), Marek Hamšík.
New Zealand: Shane Smeltz, Chris Killen.
Group F – The crunch match at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
Italy vs Paraguay
As Italy are expected to clinch the top spot in Group F, their three other challengers in the same group may be fighting for the second place. The Italy vs Paraguay match will be the group’s first game, but the loser of this encounter (if there is any) might have further troubles in reaching the knockout phase.
Group F – A look back at some big points 
Italy vs Paraguay – the 1950 World Cup
On the 2nd of July 1950, the Azzurri played against Paraguay at the Estádio do Pacaembu in Sao Paulo, as the World Cup was being held by the Brazilians. In that particular game, the Italian player Carapellese scored for his side on 12 minutes to give his country the lead at half time. In the second half, a 62nd minute goal from Pandolfini sealed the victory for the Italians, who went on to finish their table as runners-up behind leaders Sweden – subsequent to a 2-0 win over the Guaranies.
Group F – The big question
Will Italy underperform and struggle to reach the Round of 16?
