Team News: Gianluigi Buffon returns for Italy against Costa Rica

Gianluigi Buffon has been restored to the Italy starting lineup for this evening's World Cup Group D match against Costa Rica.

The goalkeeper was ruled out of his side's 2-1 win against England after suffering from an ankle injury, but has recovered to take the place of Salvatore Sirigu.

Cesare Prandelli has made two other changes to his team, as Ignazio Abate replaces Gabriel Paletta in the back four while Thiago Motta comes in for Marco Verratti.

Meanwhile, Costa Rica have named the same starting XI that stunned Uruguay in their opening match.

It means that Joel Campbell keeps his place up front, with captain Bryan Ruiz supporting him in the attack.

Italy: Buffon, Abate, Barzagli, Chiellini, Darmian, De Rossi, Pirlo, Motta, Marchisio, Candreva, Balotelli

© Getty Images

Costa Rica: Navas, Gonzalez, Umana, Borges, Duarte, Bolanos, Campbell, Ruiz, Diaz, Gamboa, Tejeda

© Getty Images