Uruguay and Italy were hot favourites to qualify from the group of death ahead of Costa Rica and England but when they meet in Natal both teams know only one of them will go through at the end of 90 minutes. Here we have compiled a list of players from both sides hoping to take their nation into the round of sixteen.
STAR PLAYERS
Andrea Pirlo: The veteran midfielder knows this could well be his last match for the Azzuri and so this giant of a man will look to do what he does best, destroys his opponents with his impeccable passing and masterful reading of the game. Pirlo has been a tremendous servant for his country and his fans expect another afternoon of pure class from the midfield maestro.
Luis Suarez: Uruguay were dead and buried after the Costa Rica match but a half fit Luis Suarez instilled life in them with a brace against England . The 2010 World Cup semi -finalist are now in a position where they can make it to the pre quarters with a win against the Italians. Suarez will have to fire in all cylinders if the South Americans want to make it to the next stage as a point will not be enough for them in Natal.
PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR ITALY
Mario Balotelli: Super Mario had a great opening match against the Three Lions but had a evening to forget in the second match. He does have those odd games where he is virtually absent but there is no denying of the talent this Ghana born striker possess.
Daniele De Rossi: The Italians have been fortunate to have the services of this gem of a midfielder for quite some time now. Rossi was one of the driving force behind the teams successful run in the 2012 euro cup and will be hoping to have a similar impact this time round.
Andrea Brazagli: The Italian defender will have his task cut out against Luis Suarez who is certain to have a go at his opponents. Brazagli has had a decent outing in Brazil so far and will have to keep calm in what is going to be an energy sapping 90 minutes of football.
PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR URUGUAY
Diego Godin: The Athletico Madrid defender can count himself lucky to be still eligible for this game after escaping a red card against England. He is the leader of the defence and would look to keep the Italians at bay.
Fernando Muslera: The Uruguayan custodian pulled off one of the saves of the tournament denying Rooney a clear goal and Muslera will be hoping for another amazing afternoon in Brazil.
Edison Cavani: He is yet to produce a performance that is on par with the standard he sets for himself but still is one of the players that can change the course of the game with a brilliant strike or an intelligent cross like the one he produced against England for his side’s first goal.
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