Italy's Buffon unfazed by pressure

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, seen here, believes the Azzurri can handle the extra weight of expectation that comes with being world champions.

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes the Azzurri can handle the extra weight of expectation that comes with being world champions.

"As world champions we carry with us a great responsibility," said the 28-year-old Juventus star ahead of Italy's first two Euro 2008 qualifying matches.

"But the experience will help us and we're still very hungry for success."

Italy play against Lithuania on Saturday and then travel to Paris to face France, whom they beat in last month's World Cup final after a penalty shoot-out, the following Wednesday.

Buffon added: "Everybody will be looking at us differently now. Against France what is important is that we don't lose.

"We must prove that it wasn't just by chance that we beat them in Berlin."

Buffon said he was glad that he didn't have to think about spot-kicks this time around.

"At least there won't be penalties on Wednesday," he joked."

While most of Juventus' stars have left the club following their relegation to Serie B for match-fixing, Buffon has decided to stick with the club he joined from Parma in 2001.

Many feel his decision will be harmful to his career, but Buffon feels he has made the right decision.

"I've decided to stay and I have no regrets, even if it is regarded negatively from a professional point of view," he said.