Ladies and gentlemen, the final for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup trophy is set. One of the teams was expected, the other team supposedly didn't have a chance. It will be Brazil vs. United States. The Brazilians made the final after defeating South Africa 1-0 in Johannesburg.

South Africa played well and kept the Brazilians from establishing their offensive rhythm. At times, Bafana Bafana looked the better side and were certainly not intimidated by Seleção. South Africa almost stunned the Copa América champs with their best opportunity coming in the 21st minute when South African captain Aaron Mokoena got on the end of a free kick and sailed his header attempt over the crossbar.


Brazil was kept in check by an athletic, tight marking South African defense and midfield as Inter Milan right-back Maicon said, "They played 100 percent perfect tactically. We had to stay patient until the end and it paid off." Brazil had to wait till the 88th minute for it to pay off when 2nd half substitute Dani Alves buried a free kick goal from just outside the box beating South African keeper Itumeleng Khune for the game winner.


Dani Alves, a natural right back, came on for left back Andre Santos and created a moment of Brazilian magic. The Barcelona star played out of position but his desire to see Brazil win trumped any personal difficulties. The hosts played aggressively and were not afraid of Brazil, they didn't play 11 men in the box for 90+ minutes and attacked the Brazilian defense frequently. The 1-0 loss was noble performance by South Africa, a goal practically at the death was heartbreaking but the South Africans should not hold their heads down. Bafana Bafana have a 3rd place match versus a suddenly vulnerable Spain side.

Brazil will now face the US in Sunday's final. The Brazilians are looking to win their record 3rd Confederations Cup trophy while the United States will try to become the 2nd CONCACAF team to hoist the trophy. Mexico was the 1st when they won defeated Brazil 4-3 in the 1999 tournament.