That the present holders Italy is out of the FIFA 2010 world cup is the first surprise news of the event as Slovakia held out for a easy 3-2 win over the former at Ellis Park on Thursday.
Italy failed to force a draw for keeping themselves in the tournament. Instead, the World Cup debutants Slovakia reached the last 16 after coming second in Group F behind Paraguay, who drew 0-0 with New Zealand.
In fact, Italy paid the heavy price for inconsistent performance. It was the first time the team had conceded three goals in a match at a World Cup tournament since they lost 4-1 to Brazil in the 1970 final in Mexico.
