Venue: Arena Fonte Nova Date: Saturday 22nd June 20:00PM Confederations Cup hosts, Brazil, will play Italy at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador on Saturday 22nd June (20:00PM UK time). With Brazil and Italy both having picked up wins against Japan and Mexico, both nations have already qualified for the semi-finals, but the winner of today's game will likely dodge World and European champions Spain and top Group A. Whilst the victors will likely be getting the easier of semi-finals, the winners could be still face tough competition with Nigeria and Uruguay both fighting for a place in the last four with three points each. Brazils Neymar has looked the most dangerous when attacking and the newly confirmed Barcelona youngster has really impressed in the tournament going on 15 solo runs and scoring two goals in as many games. Italy were disappointing in their 4-3 win over Japan and had to rely on a 86th minute goal from Giovinco in order to secure the win.
Team News
Despite both clubs having secured semi-final spots, Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has announced he will "probably keep the same team" if it is possible. Brazils centre-back David Luiz is likely to keep his place in the starting line-up despite suffering a broken noes in the game against Mexico. Italy will be forced to shuffle their midfield with Andrea Pirlo being ruled out with a leg injury. Daniele De Rossi will also sit out the last group match after receiving two yellow cards in the last two appearances.
Possible Team Line-ups
Italy's possible line-up: Buffon, Chiellini, Bunucci, Barzagil, De Scigilo, Aquilani, Montolivo, Marchisio, Abate, Giaccherini, Balotelli. Brazil's possible line-up: Julio Cesar, Marcelo, Dante, Thiago Silva, Dani Alves, Hernanes, Gustavo, Oscar, Neymar, Hulk, Jo.
Recent form
Having secured two wins, Italy have already progressed to the semi-finals but with a challenging 2-1 win over Mexico and a lucky 4-3 escape over Japan, Italy may find it difficult to get the win over Brazil. The Blues are however on a eight-match unbeaten run suggesting they could grab a victory should they take their opportunities. Brazil have been one of the strongest participants in this years tournament and with two wins, a 3-0 win over Japan and 2-0 victory against Mexico, meaning the home nation are yet to concede going in to the game with Italy.