Pirlo vs. Busquets
The unconvincing display up front by Italian players against Brazil proved the fact that Pirlo is the heart and soul of Italian attack. The Italian architect is set to make a return for this all-important game and is expected to put up match winning performances against the reigning World champions. His exquisite passing ability was the only thing that was missed sorely in the encounter with Brazil. The job to handle him will be entrusted to Spanish defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets. Unlike de Rossi, Busquets focuses only on the defensive aspect of his game and has really excelled in it. His would have to make use of his intercepting abilities and timely tackles to keep the Italian maestro under a tight leash. Italy’s chances of progressing to the final would be influenced to a certain extent by the outcome of this midfield battle.