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MOTD Preview: Italy V Uruguay

By on June 24, 2014

A crucial game in Group B sees south American side Uruguay take on an Italian side, who like their opponents have won in just one and lost one game in their opening two games of  the tournament.

An excellent Costa Rican side clinched the first qualifying spot in the group by beating both of the sides on show here, and with the other nation in the group, England eliminated, these two teams will be vying for the coveted a chance to progress in the competition. Pre-tournament many expected these two teams to qualify from this group, but with two fantastic performances from Lost Tico’s has meant that one of these team will be heading for an early exit from the competition.

Italy grid out a result against England in their first match and came away with a 2-1 win against the Three Lions In a humid Manaus; Prandellli was tactically spot on against Hodgson’ side. Yet the same cannot be said about the Italians following performance against Central American side Costa Rica, and the Azzuri seemed to lack team spirit and the courage to win the game against a spirited and fearless Costa Rican side who dealt with everything Pirlo and Co. threw at them. They successfully identified the frailties within Prandelli’s squad and used them to their advantage. This paid off for the Los Ticos and they where rewarded with a stunning 1-0 victory against the Azzuri culminating in them qualifying for the round of 16 for the first time in 24 years.

Italy tend to produce their best performances in the most important games and I cannot see tonight being any different, although both sides have extensive tournament experience which can be vital in games such as this one, I feel the Italians have the right blend of hungry talented players and experience which will serve them well in this match. However, the 2006 winners will have to be marginally better in the upcoming game and the rest of the tournament if Azzuri want to win their second World Cup in three tournaments, and will have to defy huge odds to win the tournaments with nations possessing much better squads than them. But if anyone can overcome all odds and lift the trophy at the end it’s Italy.

Opponents Uruguay are sure to provide a stern test, but were outplayed by a rampaging Costa Rica side in their first game. They began the game well and PSG forward, Cavani scored from the spot but that decision fired Los Ticos on and they didn’t hold back, putting three goals past a hopeless Fernando Muslera. Uruguay’s defense looked average and out of ideas, but the Uruguayans improved in their next game against an England side who where eliminated from the tournament by Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, who capitalized on England defensive mishap and a shocking mistake by England captain Steven Gerrard, who’s headed back-pass ran straight through to an awaiting Luis Suarez who slotted past Joe Hart. Again in this match the Uruguayan defense looked average and where rarely threatened by a hopeless England side.

Uruguay will have to dramatically improve in this game if they want to join Costa Rica in the next round of the tournament, and they must find a equal ground between attacking and defending and must concentrate on both equally, otherwise I expect Milan striker Mario Balotelli to capitalize on the weakness of the Uruguayans and punish them. Of course, manager Oscar Tabarez will be wary of this threat.

The game is sure to be exciting with both sides desperately looking to try and come out on top, key players on the field such as Pirlo, Balotelli, Suarez and Godin will all be hoping to drive their national sides into the next round.

Prediction: Italy 1-1 Uruguay — Italy to qualify

I expect the italians to hold firm and gain a draw against a Uruguayan side who will be hoping their attacking threat will carry them through, but the Italian defense is a lot better than that of England’s and Luis Suarez will find it difficult to see gaps in the Italian back line.

About Callum Kenwright

Evertonian. Angler. Oasis. Spanish Football. Aspiring Football Journalist.