Brazil Win Confederations Cup!

71. Luis Fabiano

Brazil scored three goals in the second half of the Confederations Cup final to complete a remarkable comeback and win the game after going down by two goals at the end of the first half.

Clint Dempsey gave the Americans a surprising lead early on, and Landon Donavan ended a fantastic counter attack by putting the ball where it belonged. As the referee called for the halftime break, the game appeared to have been won as another upset appeared to be on the cards.

However, the second half began with a greatly rejuvenated Brazilian team, as they instantly pulled one back. Maicon sent one to Luis Fabiano who turned and sent a low shot past Tim Howard. Some time later, a header by Kaka appeared to have crossed the line, but the referee disallowed it. However, replays indicated that the ball had indeed crossed the line.

USA tested the Samba boys a little past the hour mark, but Julio Cesar had no significant problem punching the ball away. But this was a slim respite for the stars and stripes, as wave after wave of yellow shirts piled on the pressure at the other end of the pitch. A rebound off the woodwork allowed Luis Fabiano to bag a brace, and ten minutes later, a towering header by Lucio sealed the perfect comeback for the Selecao.

As the referee brought the proceedings to a halt, it was a heartbreaking defeat for the Americans, whereas it was yet another carnival for their opponents.

USA 2-3 Brazil

Dempsey 10 (US), Donavan 27 (US), Luis Fabiano 46, 74 (B), Lucio 84 (B)