United States holds Italy to 1-1 at halftime in Group E

Cristian Zaccardo scored an own-goal in the 27th minute Saturday, helping the United States hold Italy to 1-1 at halftime in their Group E match at the World Cup.

Photo: United States holds Italy to 1-1 at halftime in Group E

Zaccardo knocked the ball into his own net after United States captain Claudio Reyna had sent in a free kick from the right side.

Alberto Gilardino had given Italy the lead in the 22nd minute. Zaccardo played the ball into the area and Gilardino slipped the ball past United States goalkeeper Kasey Keller.

Pablo Mastroeni nearly gave the United States a 2-1 lead in the 42nd but his hard shot sailed high.

Both teams finished the half with 10 men. Italy midfielder Daniele De Rossi was sent off for elbowing Brian McBride in the 28th minute, and Mastroeni was red-carded in the 45th for a hard tackle on Andrea Pirlo.

Earlier, Ghana upset the Czech Republic 2-0 in the other group match, reports AP.

O.Ch.