FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa

Team USA were the giant killers of the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009, knocking out the tournament favorites Spain in a stunning semi-final match, and beating Egypt 3-0 in the group stages. In the final against four time winners brazil, the Americans dominated the first half of the game, both Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey scoring goals to put the US up 2-0 at halftime. But Brazil pulled back in the second half, possesssing the ball and making more counterattacks than the US. Luís Fabiano's goal was scored in a typical Brazilian flourish, and he scored again with 16 minutes remaining to give Brazil the equalizer.



Brazilian Kaká was player of the tournament, but his header which crossed the goal line in the final was not awarded. It was left to Lúcio to score the winning goal for Brazil. "Look, we played well, we gave them a very good fight," said Dempsey after the match. "It's just that they created more chances and scored more goals and deserved to win. Sometimes you just have to accept that."

Meanwhile hosts South Africa were the other surprise package of the tournament, reaching the semi-final and then playing against Spain for the third spot. This game drew as much fan support as the final, specially when South Africa equalized 2-2 in injury time. But Spain got their winning goal in extra time. Other players awarded in the FIFA Confederations Cup were Luis Fabiano, who got the Golden Boot for being leading scorer with five goals, while USA goalkeeper Tim Howard received the Golden Glove as the best goalie. For South Africa this tournament was a successful dress rehearsal for the 2010 World Cup, which they will host.