Friday, 28 June 2013

OPINION: BRAZIL VS SPAIN FINAL (Let's not pretend)

This tournament has been quite interesting for football lovers across the globe. So far, we have seen the spectacular, thrilling moments and finesse. We have also seen the depth of the super powers and the minnows.

As envisaged, Brazil and Spain will be playing in the final having overcome all the odds. Let’s not pretend we never expected or anticipated this fixture else one should question the planet you’re from.

These two teams won all three matches in the group phase to confirm their superiority over other teams in their respective groups (Brazil A) (Spain B). With emphatic victories over their opponents, it also shows that they are simply the best sides in the tourney.

Brazil in this tournament have been a shadow of themselves before the commencement of the competition. Their performance was not so convincing then, but now, one can say without fear of contradiction that they have a team ready to take on the world any day anytime.


It is also important to bring to your remembrance that the only time the Brazilians felt threatened so far was against Uruguay in the semi final when they conceded a penalty that Diego Forlan failed to net. It would have been interesting to see how the Brazilians were going to react but we were denied that glimpse.

Spain on the other hand, expectedly for many were ‘finalist in the making’ with the crop of players and style they play. Also, one should not forget that they are the reigning world and European champions. 


It should also be noted that the Spaniards are not totally invincible as seen in the semi final against Italy where they had to qualify for the final on penalty shoot-out. The Azzurris didn’t afford them much room to express themselves with their Tiki-Taka. Thats just they way to go against such a team.

Anyway, it’s ‘Joga Bonito’ vs ‘Tiki Taka’ style in the final. Spain head to Maracana with 29 matches unbeaten and a chance to win their first Confederations cup title. While Brazil hope to save and continue their 56 straight undefeated home record counting from 1975, years before Neymar was born.

The whistle and the crowd might just play a part in this crunchy encounter come Sunday. Time shall tell.

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