FIFAWC2010: count on Brazil and USA

Whoever wants to win 2010 World Cup will have Brazil to contend with...

So what does the Confederations Cup 2009 tell us? First and foremost, that Brazil will be the team to beat at the 2010 World Cup, to be held in South Africa again.

The Seleçao has such an enormous talent base to pick from, just think, Ronaldinho, Diego, Ronaldo and Adriano were all left out this time. Dunga's team is also very "European", meaning it is less exhibitionist and more effective than the normal Brazil squad, which in practice means the ability to win even when they're having an off night. And the team fielded in Africa, as well as being very talented in attack with 14 goals from 5 games, also proved it had character and was hungry for victory. In other words, a solid, honest-to-goodness squad. As Kakà proved, named best player of the final, in his words at the end of the game: "What did we say to each other at half-time, down 0-2?" Yes, we can". A bit of an Americanism but basically that "we're going to win because we're Brazil." We can do anything.

Disappointing displays
From Italy first and foremost. Disappointing for its lack of results and for losing two matches out of three. And for a pretty poor game too. They have a year to regain some ground and to try again here in South Africa when the stakes will be much higher. Another team whose hopes were dashed was Spain, sent back as well to try again. Their 35-long unbeaten record was broken by the cinderella of the tournament, i.e. USA, who wrecked all hopes of a super face-off with Brazil.

South Africa passed the test
As organising country of the Confederations Cup and the forthcoming World Cup, South Africa passed the test. It goes without saying that there's still room for improvement, but the first African country to host a World Cup has a good chance of pulling it off nicely. Work is underway all over the country, but the infrastructures are already in acceptable shape. The stadiums (good) didn't sell out due to the high ticket prices and difficulty getting hold of tickets, but the Bafana Bafana fans, especially the coloured fans, were genuinly enthusiastic supporters who were great fun as they enjoyed each game. Even their team performed well, beaten by Brazil then Spain but without losing face.

Stars Luis Fabiano was crowned top scorer of the tournament, having put on a very fine show. Kakà had some dazzling moments, during which he was unrelenting and unstoppable. Lucio, Maicon and Felipe Melo all played well. Several Spanish players looked good too, such as Torres and Xabi Alonso, and an upcoming Piquè. Italy found solace in Rossi. Some lesser known players who played well were US team members Donovan and Dempsey, and Zidan for Egypt. Another two names we might be hearing more of on our home turf are Parker and Tshabalala.