ITALY goalkeeper Federico Marchetti is relishing the opportunity to fill in for injured veteran Gianluigi Buffon when his side face New Zealand Sunday.

Buffon has a herniated disc and was subsituted in Italy’s opening game against Paraguay,

“I am convinced I can play a good game on Sunday,” said Marchetti.

“The other night against Paraguay, I knew that Gigi (Buffon) had a problem and hence I was mentally ready to replace him.”

Over the years, Buffon has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and the Cagliara keeper admits they have contrasting styles.

“Buffon and I are different.” he said.

“He is faster and more reactive. I am more muscular and explosive.”

The 27-year-old made his senior debut last year with and this sumnmers World Cup marks his first international tournament.

“I feel the confidence of my team-mates,” he said.

“I plan to enjoy Sunday’s game, I am calm and ready to help the national team.”