The fitness of goalkeeping legend Gianluigi Buffon is Italy's most pressing concern ahead of the game with the All-Whites.
A back problem will definitely keep him out of the game, but the concern is that he could be sidelined long-term and miss the rest of the tournament
Stand-in Federico Marchetti lacks experience at this level but will continue to deputise.
AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo will likely be absent once again, as he won't be ready for action until the final group game at the earliest.
New Zealand have no fresh concerns to contend meanwhile and should start the same team that nabbed a draw with Slovakia.
Chris Killen will once again lead the line, hoping to repeat the two goal-performance he turned in last time the teams met.
On that occasion, Italy prevailed 4-3, but only after two late goals in the 2009 Confederations Cup game.