Kaizer Chiefs central defender Fabian McCarthy has heaped praise upon a fellow central defender in the form of Italian Captain Fabio Cannavaro for his outstanding displays in leading his side to the FIFA World Cup Final to be held this Sunday in the German capital Berlin.

Cannavaro shone once again on Tuesday evening as Italy defeated the hosts Germany in extra time to book their place in the final.

The Italians will meet France in Sundays final. Cannavaro has been a pillar of strength in an Italian defence that have conceded just one goal in their six World Cup games thus far, the only goal went past Buffon in the tournament thus far was scored as an own goal scored by Christian Zaccardo in Italy’s second goal against the United States.

While many other big names have fallen by the wayside in Germany - Italy being lead by the no nonsense Cannavaro have won many friends as they made their way to the FIFA World Cup Finals for the first time in twelve years.

Fabian, who has watched the progress of the Azzurri has laid their success down to the hard work and contributions of their defenders.

McCarthy said, “if you notice not just the semi final, but in all the games Cannavaro has ruled the roost for his team and has been a real quality performer”. McCarthy has been further impressed by the diminutive Italian Captain’s ability to out jump taller opposition strikers and win aerial duals adding, “What Fabio lacks in height - he definitely makes it up with aggression and great anticipation to read a situation well and get his team out of trouble”.

As the FIFA World Cup has progressed, McCarthy has become a firm admirer of the Italian defenders Nesta, Zacchardo, Matterazzi, Cannavaro et al, he has also picked up a few more tricks from the Italians in how to deal with opposing strikers.

“During the World Cup I have at times been watching games as a fan, but for the most part I have been looking at players in my position and watching them go about their business. I must say that watching the Italians especially has been an invaluable experience” said Fabian.

With Italy already on the train to Berlin Fabian is confident of an Italian victory on Sunday “this Italian team is filled with quality players and when they play France in the final - I think they will win convincingly” concluded McCarthy.