Confederations Cup: Brazil vs Spain - Five talking points

3. Brazil’s strike force

Brazil were in goal-scoring form throughout the competition, exacting admirable performances from their forwards. Many doubted the ability of Fred ahead of the competition, and repeated these doubts ahead of the final, as they thought that he did not match up the great strikers of the past Brazilian sides. But he proved them wrong with great flamboyance. He scored five goals in the competition, including two in the final.

Spain, on the other hand, were constantly in search of a no.9 during this competition, with Del Bosque choosing to go with Torres at the last instant. He had a miserable night. It is interesting to note that a core group of players in Brazil’s squad that have lifted the team to this triumph ply there trade in Brazil. Neymar, who was at Santos but will be moving to La Liga next season, was the competition’s obvious find. His talent has been acknowledged and praised everywhere.

It is a feat for the youngster to carry such overwhelming expectations with so much elan. He played on the wing and exposed Spain’s defensive loopholes. He netted the second goal for Brazil that clinched the game, but has to thank David Luiz for his goal-line clearance just moments before. This will be Brazil’s strength going into the world cup next year.