Confederations Cup: Oh Dani Boy

BRA 1-0 RSA

South Africa were 2 minutes away from taking the mighty Brazil to extra-time in their Confederations Cup Semi-Final, until subtitute Dani Alves struck a brilliant free-kick to send the Selacao into final, and cruelly deny the Bafana Bafana a chance to play at the final of the tournament that they are hosting.

The Barcelona right-back came on late in the game and powered a trademark strike into the far corner after South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena had conceded the set piece with a foul on Ramires.

Mokoena had earlier sent a far post header from close range over. Steven Pienaar, who was undoubtedly the man of the match, also came close for the hosts when his 25-yard shot was palmed wide by keeper Julio Cesar.

Brazil had struggled to produce their fluent passing game and, until the winner from Alves, gave South Africa the scent of creating a similar upset to the previous semi-final which saw the United States beat Spain.

South Africa will now meet the European Champions in the 3rd Place Play-Off on Sunday, while Brazil will be in the showpiece event against the Americans at Ellis Park around 5 hours later.