2006 DEFENDING CHAMPIONS KNOCKED OUT.

Italy the 2006 world champions were knocked out in the first round. Along with France as well who were also last in their group like Italy. The 2006 finalists were knocked out in the first round this has never happened before. But yes Champions have failed to reach the group of 16 bef0re, Brazil in 1966, France in 2002 and Italy 2010.But the minnows Slovakia beat Italy in a 3-2 win in which Italy was outplayed. Italy also conceded three goals in a world cup for the first time in a world cup since 1970, when they lost to Brazil 4-1.This is how the group finished. Paraguay, Slovakia, New Zealand , Italy.Fabio Cannavaro Gennaro Gattuso and Marciello Lippi have retired.