Five reasons why Brazil will defeat Spain to win the Confederations Cup

3. Goals

Brazil’s forwards have worn their scoring boots throughout the tournament. They have opened the scoring early in most of their games and another such performance against Spain will tilt the game in their favour. On the other hand, the longer the game is goalless the better it gets for Spain. They held their nerve against Netherlands in the World Cup final and will be backing themselves to do the same against the Selecao.

Also, Brazil striker Fred has silenced his critics with three goals in the last two matches. With their strikers in form, Brazil will only need half a chance to spring a rude surprise for the world champions.

2. The Full-Backs

Italy caught Spain on the flanks and Brazil will be looking to do the same. Del Bosque highlighted that threat ahead of the game, saying: “Dani Alves and Marcelo are great. They’re able to influence a game.”

Marcelo and Dani Alves know every bit of Spanish football and they will execute Scolari’s plans to perfection. They can provide that extra bit of pace on the wing. Jordi Alba has been consistent in this tournament but he had a hard time against Italy, whereas Arbelao has been suspect throughout the competition. It is possible that the battle is won and lost in this mini-battle.

1. Neymar

Neymar’s performance will be crucial for Brazil to win the Confederations Cup against Spain

The poster boy of Brazilian football will play a crucial part in this game. He has driven the Selecao in this competition with his goal-scoring ability and flair when playing in the middle of the pitch. In many ways, he has lifted the side to greater heights with his inspirational displays, and he would be the biggest reason why Brazil can win this match. Most of his critics who undermined his performances against Japan and Mexico argued that his real test would come at the business end of the competition against high-quality oppositions. Italy and Uruguay tried their best to quell the threat that he poses but he was still able to make match winning contributions in those games. He can truly monopolize the spotlight in the final.