It doesn't get any bigger than this.

Italy and Uruguay, two of the greatest and most accomplished soccer nations in the world will face each other Tuesday for the final spot available in Group D for a chance to win the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

These two distinguished soccer countries have won a combined six World Cups. This Group has been one of the toughest so far of any group with Costa Rica leading the charge. England hasn't been able to win a game and Costa Rica looks to be unbeatable after two games.

Who has the edge? Let's find out:

Italy

The Italian team comes in as the No. 9 ranked squad in the world and their head coach is Cesare Prandelli. Italy successfully defeated England in their opener 2-1, but fell to Costa Rica 1-0 in their second game. Although Italy is one of the most accomplished soccer countries ever, they were embarrassed in the last World Cup when they failed to register a single victory and didn't even make it out of group play. If Italy loses to Uruguay, it would be the first time since the 1960s that the team doesn't qualify for the knockout round in two consecutive World Cups.

Italy needs their offense to step up. So far, only Mario Balotelli and Claudio Marchisio have been able to light the lamp. This Italian team is built on defense and goaltending with Gianluigi Buffon leading the way, but it's time to start putting the ball in the net more often. Andrea Pirlo is playing in his third World Cup and is one of the captains.

Uruguay

Uruguay has followed the same path as Italy. A loss to Costa Rica and a win over England puts this team at 1-1 after two games. Uruguay ranks No. 7 in the world and they finished fourth in last year's World Cup. Unfortunately for Uruguay, Italy holds a slight advantage because of a plus one goal differential. So if Uruguay is to advance, they will have to win this game no matter what as opposed to Italy who can advance with a tie.

Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani have combined to score the three goals for Uruguay, but the team has allowed four in the process. Goalkeeper Fernando Muslera has been playing well, but the defense has not been playing up to their potential. This defense is led by team captain Diego Lugano and Maxi Pereira. Both are playing in their second World Cup.

Prediction

Both teams in desperation mode and much in need of a win. Italy's defense will hold its own and Uruguay will match. Italy and Uruguay tie 1-1.

Schedule, Start Time, Where and When to Watch

These two teams will play each other at the Arenas das Dunas in Natal. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. Tuesday on ESPN and the head official will be Mexican referee Marco Rodríguez. Fans can also watch the game online via WatchESPN.

For up-to-date sports news, scores, and more, follow Latin Post Sports on Twitter

WANT MORE WORLD CUP ACTION? CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR LATIN POST.COM'S OFFICIAL WORLD CUP 2014 NEWS AND UPDATES PAGE