All Whites eye more glory

World Cup surprise packets New Zealand adjust their sights to Paraguay in Polokwane today after defying the odds by drawing with Italy.

Having suffered three heavy losses in a previous appearance 28 years ago, the Kiwis mocked predictions that they would suffer a similar fate in South Africa by also holding Slovakia.

Victory over Group F leaders Paraguay would guarantee a second-round place and a draw might suffice depending what happens between Italy and Slovakia at the same time in Johannesburg.

"Anything is possible and we are doing okay for a team who some said should not be playing at the World Cup," said coach and former World Cup defender Ricki Herbert.

He was part of the team beaten 5-2 by Scotland, 3-0 by the Soviet Union and 4-0 by Brazil in Spain three decades ago and says the Kiwi class of 2010 is in a different league.

"We are always daring to dream. At the World Cup anything is possible - we have seen some strange results - but nothing as big as that one (holding Italy)," he said.

Impressive South American qualifiers Paraguay are also on a roll having led Italy in a 1-1 Cape Town draw before taking Slovakia apart in a 2-0 Bloemfontein win that could have been bigger.

"It is the best team Paraguay has ever had. We have been playing together for years and are very experienced and mentally strong," boasted Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz.

"Paraguay have never been to the quarter-finals. This is our goal and when we reach that, everything is possible. We have beaten Argentina and Brazil, two of the best teams in the world, to get here."

Key to match

• Ryan Nelsen vs Roque Santa Cruz