Cavani relishing Uruguay 'final' against Italy
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."
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.