Brazil upends U.S.A. 3-2 in Confederation Cup Finals

by Mark Phillips
June 28, 2009

Brazil, led by Luis Fabiano, scored 3 times in the 2nd half to erase a two goal first half deficit to defeat the surprising U.S. squad and successfully defend their Confederation Cup title in Johannesburg, South Africa today.

The U.S. squad exercised great efficiency in the 1st half, scoring twice despite being on the defensive much of the half. Things were looking very promising after getting scores from Clint Dempsey, in the 10th minute, and Landon Donovan 27 minutes in. Going into the locker room up 2-0 at the half, seemed as though this impossible dream may become a reality for the U.S. team.

In the 2nd half, however, Brazil increased their intensity and used their depth to wear down the U.S. team, behind a tremendous 180 degree pivoting kick by Fabiano that got past U.S. goalie Tim Howard, one minute into the second half. Fabiano tied the score at the 74 minute mark and Brazil’s captain, Lucio, scored the game winner with less than five minutes to play, making Brazil only the second country to win consecutive Confederation Cup titles.

Despite the loss, the U.S. team’s showing here has prompted great optimism and excitement for next year’s World Cup. The team showed great resiliency over the past week, staving off elimination with a 3-0 victory over Egypt, coupled with this same Brazilian teams 3-0 victory over Italy – exactly the margins required for the U.S.A. to advance to the Stage 2 semi-finals of the tournament. In the Stage 2 semi-finals, the U.S. once again, shocked the soccer world by upsetting number one ranked Spain 2-0 to advance to the championship against Brazil.