South Africa did everything they could to make the 2009 Confederations Cup a story of underdogs. Up against seemingly impossible odds against the superpower of superpowers Bafana Bafana fought bravely and lost by the most narrow of margins.

It was a superbly taken, razor accurate free kick from substitute Dani Alves that crushed South Africa's dreams of reaching their first final and doing it on home soil. For 88 minutes the crowd at Ellis Park were energetic and hopeful as they watched their heroes look Brazil directly in the eyes and not back down. Lead by the inspired play of Everton's Steven Pienaar the hosts frustrated Brazil time after time. Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was nearly cast into the role of hero as he made some big saves to keep the Brazilians at bay.

Indeed at times luck played a role for South Africa but their heart and bravery cannot be denied. it was a harsh ending for South Africa but their adventure will provide them a much needed boost as the prepare to host the big show next summer. For now they will look to Rustenburg where Spain await at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, to the South Africans, this match means a lot.

Meanwhile the United States will partake in their first ever FIFA men's final as Spain's conquerers will take on the same Brazil team that beat them by three goals in the group stage.  Brazil have won the trophy twice in the past in addition to their five World Cups.

Before the match FIFA will take time to honor the late Cameroon midfielder Marc-Vivien Foe prior to the match.

The turbulence and uncertainty ahead of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa continues to cast a dark cloud over what should be a nation's coming out party. The latest episode follows a report from the British newspaper The Guardian stating that insurers were fearful about providing coverage for the event amid fears that the stadiums would not be complete on time. This report comes at a time when around 500 workers have gone on strike at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The estimated date of completion for the 46,000-seat stadium is mid-2009 but unless this problem is solved quickly that will surely be pushed back.

It is widely thought that the United States is the stand-by host in case the event cannot go ahead in South Africa. Certainly living in the United States I would be delighted at an opportunity to attend World Cup matches so easily, but I want South Africa to host it, I think South Africa needs to host it. Few nations have had to deal with the hardships that South Africa has and the country needs something that could give it a chance to become the great nation it has the potential to be. I think, and I hope that the 2010 World Cup would do just that. So, I wish South Africa the best of luck

Tomorrow (or today in most places) Arsenal and Liverpool will meet in what will be the second of three matches in one week's time. It's an important match for both clubs, particularly Arsenal who need a win to keep pace with league leaders Manchester United. Despite a recent slide in form Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal still have enough in the tank to capture their first championship since the 2004 season in which the Gunners went unbeaten. The Londoners will need a solid performance from Phillipe Senderos and William Gallas in the heart of defense as it seems likely Rafa Benitez will call upon Peter Crouch who has made it a habit to score against Arsenal throughout his career. Arsenal also announced that goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has signed a new contract. Lots of people question Almunia's ability, while there are many goalkeeper's I'd rather have I believe Almunia has done a respectable job.