In what would have been the most monumental upset since…well…yesterday, South Africa came within three minutes of pushing powerhouse Brazil to overtime in the second semifinal of the 2009 Confederation’s Cup. But the host’s date with destiny was not to be, as Dani Alves bent a wicked free kick into the net in the 87th minute to propel the Brazilians into the finals. They’ll face the United States who pulled off the unlikeliest of upsets yesterday against world number one, Spain.
Brazil did not live up to their title as the master’s of the beautiful game, never really finding their samba-rhythm. The short peppered passes and gliding footwork were missing from the performance, as they never quite pulled away from the South Africans. Salvation came in the 87th minute from Dani Alves who fiercely curled a free kick around the wall, off of the right post and into the goal.
Credit goes to the hosts, who fared well against the South Americans. However, if they had been just a little more adventurous, they may have been able to poke through a goal.
Brazil will face the United States on Sunday in the championship match. Team USA is coming off of a huge wave of momentum after defeating Spain 2-0 yesterday. In their previous matchup, during the group stage of the tournament, Brazil downed the U.S. 3-0, with goals from Felipe Melo, Robinho and Maicon.
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