Sky Sport Italia claims Pirlo's scan at a Pretoria hospital has not shown a serious problem and it is believed he will play against Slovakia next Thursday, but there is further concern for Buffon after his scan...

Andrea Pirlo has been cleared to return to play for Italy when they take on Slovakia next Thursday, according to Sky Sport Italia.
The midfielder skipped the 1-1 draw against Paraguay and will miss the New Zealand affair on Sunday, but he will be back in time for the final Group F clash.
Pirlo had a medical examination at a hospital in Pretoria on Wednesday morning and results proved negative. It is said his recovery is going well and he will be able to play against the Slovakians.
However, there is pessimism in relation to Buffon. He also went to hospital for a scan on his Sciatic nerve problem, but early indications from South Africa indicate further bad news for him.
He was whisked away through a secondary exit at the hospital as journalists marauded the streets in search for answers. There has been no official confirmation on the goalkeeper's injury following his scan, but Azzurri team doctor Enrico Castellacci will inform the press further this afternoon.
There are fears Buffon may miss the tournament following his injury. Palermo goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu is said to be on standby, but the Italian FA would have to apply for special permission from FIFA for him to join the squad if Buffon leaves.