Azzurri lambasted by media

Italian media lambasted the world champions yesterday for a woeful performance in their 3-0 defeat by the Dutch in their Group C opener.

"Ouch. What a blow!" read the banner headline on the front page of Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Holland gives us a lesson."

Like many others, La Repubblica newspaper criticised the team's line-up and the holes in the defence. It also said the team were indecisive, letting the Dutch take the initiative.

One of its columnists joked about the meaning behind the perpetually sad look on coach Roberto Donadoni's face.

"Maybe it is because he sees things ahead of time."

Valid goal

Netherlands' controversial first goal on Monday was correctly awarded despite many observers believing it was offside, UEFA said.

UEFA general secretary David Taylor said the officials correctly interpreted the laws of the game when Ruud van Nistelrooy scored, stating Christian Panucci played him onside although the Italian was off the pitch at the time.

"The goal was correctly awarded... not many people, including the players, know this interpretation (of Law 11)," Taylor said.