Buffon ruled out of Italy clash with Denmark

Oct 16, 2012 11:27:00 AM

The Azzurri No.1 is not in the desired physical condition to face the Scandinavians in Tuesday evening's World Cup qualifier, as he continues to nurse an adductor problem

Italy will have to make do without the services of Gianluigi Buffon against Denmark after the goalkeeper failed to pass fitness tests ahead of the match.

The Juventus glovesman featured for the full 90 minutes in Friday's 3-1 away win over Armenia, but an adductor injury had kept him out of training since then.

Buffon was initially hopeful that he would shake off the knock in time to start against the Danes, but Italy's medical team have now made the decision that he is not fit enough to participate at San Siro.

The 34-year-old's absence means that Napoli shot stopper Morgan De Sanctis will now get the chance to prove his worth between the sticks.

Italy currently sit top Group B with seven points from three games, while Denmark are the pool's fifth-placed side with two points from as many matches.

Tuesday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

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