Barcelona defender Daniel Alves spared Brazil's blushes as his late goal earned the five-time world champions a 1-0 win over spirited South Africa last night to book their place in the Confederations Cup final.
Barcelona defender Daniel Alves spared Brazil's blushes as his late goal earned the five-time world champions a 1-0 win over spirited South Africa last night to book their place in the Confederations Cup final.
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This semi-final against the hosts was heading for extra time until Alves, in an inspired move by coach Dunga, replaced Andre Santos and broke the stalemate with a curling free kick in the 88th minute.
Explaining his master move Dunga said: "We knew it was going to be difficult, we knew South Africa were going to attack, to defend and counter attack.
"The game was very tight so I sent on an aggressive player (Alves) who is very quick and a specialist in set pieces, he practices set pieces every day.
"We had to make use of any opportunity that came our way so a foul in fornt of goal was perfect for us."
Brazil now face the United States in Sunday's final with South Africa heading to Rustenburg for the third place play-off with Spain.
"I think we played very well against a team recognised as one of the best in world and even surprised Brazil. I'm very proud," said Brazil-born South Africa coach Joel Santana.
"It seemed as though it would be 0-0 but then Brazil had the set piece relying on its experience placing three players in our wall to make it difficult for our keeper.
"We showed we were able to hold our own. Now we have another year to prepare for the World Cup."
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