Confederations Cup 2013 semifinal: Brazil vs Uruguay - Top 5 players to watch out for

The remaining formalities of the group stage have been dispensed as we now head into the business end of the Confederations Cup 2013. There have been a few exciting clashes so far and many breathtaking goals, but the real contests will be on display in the semifinals as Brazil gear up to face Uruguay at Belo Horizonte. The hosts were flawless in the group stages, winning each of their three games and conceding only two goals to Italy. They were not particularly bright prior to this competition but have looked a cohesive unit here, perhaps due to the energy they derive from the home crowd.

Uruguay, on the other hand, have had a tougher campaign as they were beaten first up by the World Champions Spain. They were starved of possession and apart from the Luis Suarez free-kick, had nothing to take back from that game. They pulled themselves together against Nigeria, deriving motivation from the inspirational Diego Forlan but concerns still remain.

Edinson Cavani has failed to impress in his appearance for La Celeste whereas Luis Suarez, though still at his dangerous best in the attacking-third, is losing possession in critical areas. Uruguay were becoming a force in International football at one stage, making it to the semifinals in 2010 WC but they have gone downhill since. Oscar Tabarez will be hoping that his ageing side can pull through a good performance against the Selecao.

Here is a list of the top five players who can make a difference to the result of the all important semi-final:

5. Fred

Fred

The forward was on song against the Italians in the final group fixture and ended the match with a brace. He had a number of opportunities in the game and he gave his 100% to each one of them. A return of two goals is always going to be significant but more than that, it was his involvement in the game that was a positive. He had tended to drift out a little in the previous games as the defenders were able to keep him quiet. His last goal was a gift, a predator’s goal, but he thoroughly deserved the spoils of the night. He will have a key role to play against La Celeste and goals in the bag will give him confidence.