Brazil defeated South Africa 1-0 in the second Confederations Cup semifinal. Brazil were huge favorites going into the game, but the host nation played well, passing and working off the ball for each other.
The first 30 minutes were even, with South Africa having the best chance. Brazil showed what they were capable of in the 38th minute when "World Football Player of the Year" Kaka barely missed from range. The 45th minute proved an ominous prelude as South Africa conceded a free kick from just outside the box to end the half, but Brazil were not able to score. South Africa's best chance came in the 58th minute when a shot from far out deflected to the near post, but Julio Cesear was able to react and just tip it wide. Then, to end the second half as they had the first, South Africa conceded a free kick outside the box. This time Brazil would not be so kind. Danny Alves, who had entered the game less than 10 minutes before, scored to put Brazil up and surely into the final.
Brazil certainly looked frustrated early, and perhaps had taken South Africa too lightly, as Spain had done to the US the day before. At the half, South Africa had all to play for, and they were positive throughout. Brazil just seemed to lack that creativity, and were often too direct. This has been the main criticism of manager Dunga, but they are leading in South American World Cup qualifying and into the final on Sunday to play the US, as well.
1 comment:
It really is an exciting game, especially when played almost "to the death" the way these teams do. And its so international to have so many different countries involved, instead of our World Series and Superbowl, when its just so many Americans. Although we did manage to get in one of these playoffs. Soccer is a mystery to a lot of us, but I think its every bit as exciting as football, baseball and basketball. And to me, it feels like hockey on grass and without the sticks. Keep us informed.
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