ITALY VS PARAGUAY LATEST WORLD CUP PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

Defending champions Italy are looking to get things started off with a bang today as they take on a tricky-looking Paraguay side. The Azzurri never really start many tournaments operating at 100% but they are easily one of the most difficult teams to take on during knockout stage matches. 

The key, as always, is organized defensive play from the Italians and I have a feeling that their next generation of players are really looking to make a big statement and step out of the shadow of many of the veterans that dominated the Italian national side for such a long time. 
Ladbrokes, a popular English bookmaker, has listed Italy at a very enticing price to win this match. You'll find them listed at even money to beat out Paraguay, who are trading at a 4.0 price to win. The draw pays out at 3.2 and I think that's about right. 
Needless to say, the bookies don't favour a high-scoring affair whenever Italy take to the field. Personally, I think that if they're going to lose any matches it will likely be this one and a loss here wouldn't be a total disaster. 
Personally, I think that the big variable for the Paraguayans will be pace. If they can run at the Italian defenders and get men in behind them, then they could really boss the game. The last thing the Italians want to do is concede an early goal as that keeps them from performing at their best- Italy doesn't like having to chase a match. 
The favoured correct scoreline is 5.5 for a 1-0 result with a 1-1 draw at a 6.0 price. 0-0 pays out at 6.5 and that's not a bad price either. Italy are 9.0 to win the match 2-1. 
For the Italians, Alberto Gilardino is priced at 2.2 to score anytime while Antonio Di Natale is listed at 2.37. Giampaolo Pazzini is priced at 2.75, but I expect Vincenzo Iaquinta to attract some attention at a 3.25 price. Fabio Quagliarella is also worth looking at as well. 
For Paraguaym they'll be looking to the talented Oscar Cardozo and the solid Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz. Both players trade at 4.0. 
I think that Italy should take this match, but Paraguay are probably the toughest side they'll play in the opening stages. I think the first goal here is absolutely crucial and if Italy can grab it then they should coast to a victory here.