Live Game Blog: United States v Brazil – FIFA 2009 Confederations Cup Final – Sunday June 28, 2009

The United States faces Brazil in the final of the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa. Live coverage will begin around 2:20 PM EST.

United States v Brazil – Confederations Cup Final – Sunday – 14:30 EST (20:30 local time) - Can the US stop Brazil, who’ve yet to lose a game in the tournament? After their impressive win against Spain, the Americans should have confidence they can play with Brazil, but is that enough?

The United States has had solid performances from their centerbacks, Oguchi Oneywu and Jay DeMerit, but will have trouble against an attack of Fabiano, Kaka, and Robinho. If the entire defense can remain disciplined and sacrifice like they did against Spain, the US can stay in the match. The United States will have to play defense as a team and the midfield and forwards will need to apply pressure to not allow Brazil time to set up scoring chances. A key part of the game will be set pieces and how the US defends. In the previous match in the Group Stage, Brazil won 3-0 and scored an early goal from a free kick. If the Americans want to win this match or give themselves a chance, solid defending on corners and free kicks is a must.

Brazil will need to make sure they do not take the United States lightly, as Spain did in the semifinals. While Brazil has more talent, the US still has the players to win this game or at least make it close. Charlie Davies has taken advantage of a call-up and his speed could be a key. He should be paired up top with Jozy Altidore, who scored the game-winner against Spain and is the future of the National Team. Landon Donovan has been one of the key players in midfield for the US as he’s shown leadership offensively and defensively. The United States also must have a great performance from goalkeeper Tim Howard.

Who will win, Brazil or the United States? Brazil will be the huge favorites as they should win if its based on who has more talent and the deeper rosters. However, soccer is not always about who has more talent but who executes and gives the effort necessary. It should be an entertaining match and a chance for the United States to show they are ready to make a leap to one of the top 10 teams in the World. Brazil just has too much and will not overlook this match after seeing Spain lose. Prediction – Brazil wins 2-1

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