Cavani relishing Italy ´final´

Edinson Cavani knows Uruguay will have to produce a “special performance” against Italy in order to avoid an early FIFA World Cup exit.

The South American nation head into Tuesday’s crunch Group D clash in Natal with Cesare Prandelli’s side knowing a victory will ensure they progress to the last 16 at the expense of their opponents.

Uruguay’s World Cup campaign started with a surprise 3-1 defeat to Costa Rica, but the return of Luis Suarez inspired them to a 2-1 victory over England as the clinical Liverpool striker helped himself to a double.

Italy’s hopes of progressing from Group D suffered a setback when they were beaten 1-0 by surprise package Costa Rica, who are through to the last 16, on Friday.

The Azzurri only need a draw to knock Uruguay out, but Paris Saint-Germain striker Cavani is determined to ensure his country’s World Cup campaign is not cut short.

The former Napoli told Il Mattino newspaper: “Now a huge game awaits us, certainly a difficult one against Italy. We must prepare it as best we can and put in a special performance.

“It is going to be like a final. Our fans have been fantastic so far in the tournament. They remind me of Napoli supporters.”