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Italy and Mexico will contest the second match of the Confederations Cup after a promising start to the competition on Saturday. The Azzurri have not beaten Mexico since their triumph at the World Cup in 1970, but hold the upper hand when the teams have gone head-to-head. Mexico, on the other hand, are experienced campaigners in the Confederations Cup, having won the tournament once when it was in its nascent stage in 1999, whereas Italy debuted as late as in the last edition of 2009. Both the teams have been struggling to find goal-scoring form in their recent games, but the occasion of a cup competition might ignite the much-needed fire in this tie.
Both sides have unpredictable players in their line-up who can hog the limelight as the Maracana opens its doors to the two teams. Mexico are likely to make a few changes to the side that played a dull draw against Costa Rica on Tuesday. El Tri will look to the experience of Javier Hernandez (25), Giovani dos Santos (24) and Andres Guardado (26) when they take on Euro 2012 runners up. On the other hand, Italy will bank upon their mercurial strikers from Milan. Here is a list of five players who can make a difference to the scoreline when the two sides take on each other.
5. Giovani Dos Santos
Dos Santos was in the news for the wrong reasons recently with his club Mallorca ‘kidnapping’ him, if the Mexico national side is to be believed, ahead of a friendly match against Nigeria. The 24-year-old would want to escape the negativity of that incident when he steps on to the field against Italy. His pace and his ability to perform multiple roles for his side makes him an asset. He is likely to replace Guadalajara striker Aldo de Negris in a tactical change which would see Mexico change to a 4-2-3-1 formation. He has the tendency to get into critical goal-scoring positions, and can also provide assists for his teammates. His pace will be critical against the comparatively slower Italian side.
4. Gianluigi Buffon
Goalkeepers always go without mention on such lists, but the Italian deserves all the praise he can get for his efforts against the Czech Republic. Except his efforts on the day, Italy were by far the second best team on the pitch and the veteran has always turned up for the Azzurri in cup events. Not only is he one of the world’s best shot-stoppers, but also organises his defense with great alacrity. Moreover, he is a leader on the pitch. His contribution might prove to be the difference on the day.
3. Andrea Pirlo
The Italian midfielder will make his 100th appearance for Italy in this game, and he would like to celebrate this achievement with a match-winning performance. His solidity ahead of back four is critical to the Italian midfield as he dictates the pace of the game. Italy are likely to put some speed on the wings to help create some chances for their striker Mario Balotelli; but the veteran Pirlo is likely to switch back to the Italian way of football if that plan does not work out. He will be sweeping all the loose balls and contributing with his dead ball skills and distribution.
2. Javier Hernandez
‘Chicharito’, as he is affectionately called, will be the chant for Mexico. He has all the attributes that define the threat that Mexico can pose to Italy: an abundance of intensity and technique combined with pace. His performances for Mexico has been consistent and the numbers back that up. 32 goals in 47 games is no mean feat. He has come up with the goals when Mexico have put up good defensive performances, but has looked out of sorts while initiating attacks. Italy will have to choke the Manchester United forward to make sure they get a favorable result on the day.
1. Mario Balotelli
The Italian striker has had a good couple of months at AC Milan ever since his exit from Manchester City. However, he was back to his controversial best as he picked up a red card against the Czech Republic last Friday in a World Cup qualifier. He can make or break a game for Italy, and the Azzurri will have to keep a tab on his on-field antics; but if he does turn up in his best behaviour, he can be a force to reckon with. He is unlikely to have the support of his Milanese partner Stephan El Shaarawy, who will be on the sidelines nursing a minor ankle injury. He will give the Italian team that much required pace at the head of the formation.
