Italy, U.S.-born star tops USA

PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — Of all the Italian players in the new jerseys, the standout was the kid from New Jersey.

Teaneck-born Giuseppe Rossi scored twice in the second half, Daniele De Rossi had a goal and Italy rallied to overcome a Landon Donovan penalty kick and beat the United States 3-1 Monday night in its opener at the FIFA Confederations Cup.

“I dedicate the goals to my family, who are watching the game on TV in America,” Rossi said. “This is a dream, I’m playing for the world champions, and I also hope to become a world champion next year.”

The U.S. played a man short after Ricardo Clark was ejected in the 33rd minute for a late tackle on Gennaro Gattuso, but went ahead eight minutes later when Donovan scored his American-record 40th international goal after Giorgio Chiellini hooked and kicked Jozy Altidore.

Italy, 4-0-3 against the United States, wore new light blue retro jerseys and brown shorts that hark back to the Azzurri’s first two World Cup titles in 1934 and 1938.

Rossi grew up in Clifton, but spurned the U.S. national team program to play for Italy.

He entered in the 57th minute and tied the score a minute later with a 30-yard shot after stripping the ball from Benny Feilhaber.

Tags: pro sports, confederations cup, sports, soccer, fifa