Confederations Cup 2013: Hottest Goal Scorers to Watch in Saturday's FIFA Action

Two matches into the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, a few footballers have already distanced themselves from the pack as world-class goal scorers.

On Saturday, Italy will face off against Brazil, while Japan will take on Mexico. Here are the hottest goal scorers to watch in those showdowns.

 

4. Shinji Kagawa, Japan

Kagawa helped spark a Japanese offensive attack that scored three goals in a loss to Italy on Wednesday. The Manchester United midfielder managed to attempt five shots, launching one past Gianluigi Buffon. If Japan wants to avoid going winless in the group stage, Kagawa must continue to put pressure on the opposing goaltender.

3. Jo, Brazil

Jo has taken two shots in the Confederations Cup. He scored on both of them, making him one of only seven footballers in the tournament to record multiple goals thus far. His ability to provide instant offense as a sub will be a key not only against Italy, but eventually Spain.

2. Mario Balotelli, Italy

Without Balotelli, Italy may not be undefeated entering its bout with Brazil. He scored the game-winning goal in the squad's 2-1 win over Mexico and on a penalty kick in its 4-3 victory vs. Japan. Without him, both of those were tied ballgames.

Balotelli must maintain his scoring streak against a Brazil club that has yet to surrender a goal.

1. Neymar, Brazil

Neymar lived up to the hype quite quickly.

The Brazilians have held a lead in the Confederations Cup for all but 12 minutes thanks to Neymar scoring nine minutes into their match against Mexico and three minutes into their match against Japan.

He and Jo’s scoring, coupled with Brazil’s phenomenal defense, has the nation thinking title. If Neymar continues to put dents in the scoreboard at such a rapid pace, opponents will struggle to stop the Brazilians from winning it.

David Daniels is a breaking news writer at Bleacher Report and news editor at Wade-O Radio.

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