England vs. Italy: Breaking Down the Most Important Matchups

In what looks to be the most exciting matchup of the Euro 2012 knockout round, England will take on Italy on June 24th.

The two bitter rivals should provide an enthralling game, with Roy Hodgson's bunch looking to silence its critics against a tough-minded Italy squad that played to a draw against the mighty Spaniards.

In a match that is sure to be closely contested, the outcome of the game could be shifted by even the slightest advantage that one side gains.

That's what makes the matchups so important. 

Here's a look at five crucial matchups that will ultimately determine which side will be moving on to the semi-finals.

Andrea Pirlo vs. Steven Gerrard

The matchup between these two fantastic midfielders, Andrea Pirlo and Steven Gerrard will go a long way in determining the outcome of Sunday's contest.

Both of these midfielders can do everything for their respective squads, and both play a vital part in their team's goal scoring.

For Italy, Pirlo has either scored or assisted on every goal that the Azzurri have scored in the tournament.  In the same fashion, Gerrard has assisted on three out of England's five total goals.

Whichever midfielder performs the best on Sunday will give his team the best shot to advance.

Mario Balotelli vs. John Terry

By far the most talked-about matchup of the game pits veteran center-back John Terry against Italian forward Mario Balotelli.

They both have a reputation for being short-tempered, and they both speak their minds.  One happens to be an alleged racist, while the other promised France Football he'd kill racists (per the Daily Mail).

Even non-football fans should be licking their chops for this matchup.  While it might not be the most significant in determining the final outcome, it surely will be the most fun to watch.

Wayne Rooney vs. Himself

After missing nearly a month due to a lingering toe injury and a two-game suspension, Wayne Rooney returned to the pitch for England's third game against Ukraine.

And he just wasn't typical Wayne Rooney.

Sure, he scored the only goal in the Ukraine contest (giving England the 1-0 victory), but that doesn't mean he is fully back.

Seriously, watch the goal.  I think I would have had a reasonable shot at converting that one.

Point is, one of the biggest matchups will be Wayne Rooney battling himself, to see if he can get his timing back and return to his form of old.  Rooney at peak performance would spell ruin for the Italians.

Joe Hart vs. Gianluigi Buffon

England and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has been in great form as of late and recently received backing from former England keeper David Seaman (per Sky Sports).

The 25-year-old has anchored an England defense that has only given up three goals in the entire tournament.

The Italians counter with 34-year-old veteran Gianluigi Buffon who has been equally solid, and whose experienced presence could give him the overall edge.

The entire match could come down to which keeper can come up with a big save in the late stages, to send their respective squad on to the semis.

Joleon Lescott vs. Antonio Cassano

The final matchup to look at is one between brilliant Italy forward Antonio Cassano and England defender Joleon Lescott.

While Lescott could be busy teaming with fellow backer John Terry to lock down on Mario Balotelli, the defense played against Cassano could prove to be the difference.

Cassano has been the life of the Italy offense so far in the tournament, and how he fares against Lescott will make or break the Italian attack.