Goal scoring always decides the outcome of any game and the team's top scorers will play a huge role in the third place game between Italy and Uruguay. One team has a trio of terrific scorers while its opponent is lacking its central forward and must rely on unknown talents to carry the day. Here is how Italy and Uruguay's forwards compare to one another.
Italy
Key Players: Alberto Gilardino, Stephan El Shaarawy
Mario Balotelli was the centerpiece of the Italian offensive, but the striker is no longer an option for manager Cesare Prandelli after suffering an injury. Against Spain, Prandelli turned to Gilardino; the forward produced mixed results but ultimately failed to score a single goal. Midfielder Antonio Candreva was also allowed to push up from his attacking position but also failed to deliver for Italy.
At the moment, Prandelli's best option up top could be the 20-year old El Shaarawy. The forward played against Brazil but made little impression in his limited time. He might get a chance to redeem himself in the final.
Uruguay
Key Players: Diego Forlan, Edinson Cavani, Luis Suarez
The trio has been dominant for Uruguay throughout the tournament as each has scored at least one goal. Suarez scored a gorgeous free kick goal against Spain before adding two against Tahiti. Forlan set up a goal against Nigeria and added the game winner on his own. Meanwhile, Cavani scored the lone goal against Brazil. The three strikers have shown the ability to dictate the pace of the game on their own and were very effective against Brazil.
Advantage: Italy has no reliable striker in its arsenal while Uruguay has three; advantage goes to Uruguay.