There are a number of factors that could sway the battle between Italy and Uruguay in the Confederations Cup third place match. Here are the x-factors that will decide the game.
Italy's Forward Options
Andrea Pirlo and Danielle de Rossi will be in the lineup for the game on Sunday. This means that the Italians will likely avoid the offensive collapse that they endured against Brazil in the final group match. However, Pirlo and De Rossi's appearance did little to cover for Italy's biggest problem heading into the match against Spain. If Mario Balotelli had been in the lineup for Italy, it is impossible to imagine the Azzurri not progressing to the final. However, Balotelli's absence left a massive hole that Alberto Gilardino was unable to fill adequately.
Stephan El Shaarawy presents an interesting alternative for Coach Cesare Prandelli, but he is young and relatively inexperienced on the big stage. With little at stake, he could get a shot to make an impression for next year's big event. If Italy's forwards manage to find the back of the net, then there is no doubt that the Italian contingent will walk away victorious.
Edinson Cavani
Cavani finally scored against Brazil after being rendered inert during the opening matches of the group stage. While Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan have delivered continuously for Uruguay in the tournament, Cavani has been invisible; aside from his goal, his one shining moment was a pass to Forlan for the second goal against Nigeria. Cavani's goal was unimpressive by most standards. The striker was lucky to receive the ball off a poor Brazilian clear and fired it at the goal. He has not found much space in this tournament, but will have a chance to attack a weakened Italy defense that lacks Ignazio Abate. If Cavani can be a force, then he will create more space for Suarez and Forlan to work their respective magic.
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