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.
Edited by Staff Editor