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World Cup Group F News

Pirlo hopeful for Slovakia clash

Published: 08 Jun 2010 - 18:18:37

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Influential midfielder Andrea Pirlo believes he will be fit to play in Italy's final group game of the World Cup finals against Slovakia.

The 31-year-old was this week described as "irreplaceable" by Italy boss Marcello Lippi, but is set to miss at least the opening two games of the Azzurri's World Cup defence.

Pirlo suffered a calf injury in last Thursday's friendly with Mexico and is expected to take up to three weeks to recover, meaning even a return for the June 24 match with the Slovaks is not assured. He said: "Over the last few days I have been recovering and I feel less pain."

He added: "The situation is encouraging as the lesion has started to heal. I have faith, even though the return will be defined step by step."