Date: 23 June 2013
Venue: Salvador
The verdict: Italy Bows Down To Brazil, 2-1
Brazil and Italy shall meet in a deciding match to vie for the top spot in Group A of the Confederations Cup. Both teams are already entering the semis. But with the Selecaos playing more comfortably at home, Brazil has all the edge to emerge as the group leader.
What the numbers tell
Gil Azurris and The Selecaos are tied with six (6) points each. However, Felipe Scolari’s squad has a better goal difference and will only need a draw to clinch the victory. This leaves Italy with several options. It goes either for a scoring rampage or save its energy for World Cup titleholder, Spain.
Neymar and Super Mario
Neymar and Mario Balotelli are impressive in their previous games. Neymar scored Brazil’s first two opening goals. Balotelli made two crucial shots for Italy. Both rose to the occasion and delivered. But Neymar has the scoring momentum.
Super Mario hardly passed through the Mexican defence and his scoring attempt materialized only along the sides of the penalty line. This does not disregard Balotelli’s goal contributions, but in this battle, he will be better off as a defender. Italy is in dire need to put a stop against Brazilian scorers.
Team form
Brazil won 4 out of 6 of their most recent matches while Italy never lost in their last 8 encounters (4 wins and 4 draws).
In terms of injury, only David Luiz suffers from an injury. The player broke his nose after going against Mexico. Luiz will still go against Italy wearing a protective mask.
Meanwhile, David De Rossi will not be seeing action in the upcoming match. De Rossi got two yellow cards during the team’s encounter against Japan.
It is hard to question Italy’s last performance. However, it is also true that Japan almost drained their energy. Fatigue may soon sink in. With the odds in its favor, Brazil will definitely take full advantage of every opportunity they have to secure this victory.
Photo Credit: Zimbio
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