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Semi-final
Jun. 26th, 2009 12:08 amBrazil has just won by 1-0 the second semi-final of the Confederations Cup, which was played at Ellis Park just a couple of miles away from home. Bafana-bafana played at 110% of their abilities, they fought bravely and pressed hard, but something was always missing in the finishing. The Brazilians under-estimated us, IMO. Their approach to the game looked rather aristocratic, and they could've been punished for that. But luck comes to the strong. Daniel Alves entered 5 minutes from the final whistle, and just a couple of minutes later he scored with his first touch (a terrific free-kick, I must admit). A huge disappointment for the crowd, and a lucky and undeserved final for the Brazilians.
But good luck on the final. They're the current Cup holders, so they'll be defending the trophy against USA on Sunday. The I-II and III-IV final are a repetition of the respective group matches, we'll meet Spain again. Brazil are the favourites to win the cup again, but we've yet to see the best from team USA. It'll be interesting...
Now looking at our team, I'm pretty optimistic. Contrary to most criticism from the last months, they look like a highly organised squad, capable of playing attacking, efficient and attractive football. I'm very happy with their performance overall.
But good luck on the final. They're the current Cup holders, so they'll be defending the trophy against USA on Sunday. The I-II and III-IV final are a repetition of the respective group matches, we'll meet Spain again. Brazil are the favourites to win the cup again, but we've yet to see the best from team USA. It'll be interesting...
Now looking at our team, I'm pretty optimistic. Contrary to most criticism from the last months, they look like a highly organised squad, capable of playing attacking, efficient and attractive football. I'm very happy with their performance overall.
