Buffon praises defenders

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has praised his stalwart defence for their good results.

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has praised his stalwart defence for playing their part in leading the Azzurri to the last eight of the World Cup.

Italy have not conceded in their last two games of the World Cup, against the two very attacking sides of Australia and Czech Republic and Buffon says he was convinced that they would not falter.

"I did not admit to myself that we could concede a goal," the 28-year-old keeper admitted.

"Even after Materazzi was sent off our defence worked superbly. Our players didn't let the Australians through to our goal. Supremacy in a match is good for nothing if you don't have clear goal chances."

The match with Australia had looked to be heading into extra time before a controversial penalty in the 95th minute gave Francesco Totti the chance to seal victory from the spot, and Buffon admits he did not witness the winning goal.

"I was not brave enough to watch it. It was not because I didn't believe in Totti, but I was simply very nervous.

"Totti is the chief, he is clever and experienced enough to do well in such moments. He doesn't question himself," Buffon said.

The Juventus keeper is confident that Italy can win the trophy and that it does not matter who they face in the coming rounds.

"We believe we can beat anyone. We simply have to if we want to get to the final. It is our dream."