Well you learn something everyday

You certainly cannot expect the press over here to not put a slight twist on what Der Kaiser has said and not try to make it a bit of a dig at England.

Italia 1-0 down to Slovakia



When was the last time the previous finalists didn't make it past the group stage? Has it ever happened?

Afew of the Slovakia players have like blue tape on their legs. Whats that for? I've seen afew other players with it aswell.

2006 runner up and winner. 2010 eliminated in the group both finishing bottom, both without a win. potentially ATM.

As we know, France are in complete disarray. What has happened to Italy though? Has their golden generation simply become too old and over the hill, with no youngsters coming through to replace them?

There are quite a few Italians in Millennium Square, Leeds watching the game. A few left after the second goal, a few more seem to be supporting Slovakia!

I adopt Serbia and they go out.

I get Italy in the SouthStander sweepstake and they go out.

I make numerous bets on the favourites and the majority lose.

I think I'm barred from just about every country that is competing in this tournament.

Get in there, 3-1.

3-1, great finish to the game.

Ian Darke's asking why Italy didn't play from the start with the urgency they have now.

That'll be because being 2 goals down with 10 minutes left means you throw everything at the game knowing you have nothing to lose. You don't start playing off like that because it's liable for disaster.

What a goal!

3-2!