Buffon optimistic

CAPE TOWN – Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon says he can recover from a back problem in time for the Azzurri’s next game.
Buffon was replaced by back-up Federico Marchetti at half-time of Italy’s 1-1 draw with Paraguay yesterday. Italy’s next opponents in Group F are New Zealand on Sunday – giving Buffon six days to recover.
The 32-year-old Buffon said the problem was with his sciatic nerve and he was hopeful of recovering in time.