Performance azzurred

Defending champions Italy's biggest concern going into the Sunday's match against New Zealand would be the performance of Fedrecio Marchetti, standing in for injured goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.


However, Marchetti is excited about the opportunity to fill in for injured veteran in the clash.

But he makes it clear that his style of commanding his goal line is different from Buffon, who is regarded by many as the best goalkeeper in the world.

"Buffon and I are different," he said. "He is faster and more reactive. I am more muscular and explosive.

Italy goalkeeper Fedrecio Marchetti pics/gettyimages

"I believe to have courage and awareness of your talent are the basis to have success."

Buffon has a herniated disc and had to leave Italy's opening game against Paraguay, and Marchetti came on as a substitute to help the Azzurri claim a 1-1 draw.

Mentally prepared

Speaking about his mental preparedness for the game on Sunday, the goalkeeper who plays for Cagliari in Siere A, said: "I am convinced I can play a good game on Sunday.

"I knew that Gigi (Buffon) had a problem and I was mentally ready to replace him."

Marchetti however, after seeing other keepers struggle with the Jabulani ball, admitted that it was a tough task. "It makes it more awkward," he said.

Kiwi's woes

New Zealand vice-captain Tim Brown could come into contention for the match.

The midfielder sat out the draw with Slovakia as he only met up with the squad in South Africa last week following surgery on his injured shoulder.

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