01.07. (Mon) 00:00 Brazil - Spain

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BRAZIL
César
Alves • Silva • Luiz • Marcelo
Paulinho • Gustavo
Hulk • Oscar • Neymar
Fred

SPAIN
Casillas
Arbeloa • Piqué • Ramos • Alba
Xavi • Busquets • Fàbregas
Pedro • Soldado • Iniesta

Brazil have no injury worries and are expected to field the same team that beat Uruguay for Sunday’s final against Spain.
Selecao boss Luiz Felipe Scolari has named the same starting XI in three of his side’s four matches and is unlikely to make changes, although out-of-form striker Hulk’s place may come under threat.

Spain have no injuries to report and are at full strength for the Maracana clash.

Cesc Fabregas and Roberto Soldado have shaken off muscle injuries and could return to the side after sitting out the penalty shoot-out victory over Italy.

DID YOU KNOW?
Brazil are unbeaten in 10 matches, winning their last five. They have not lost a competitive game at home since 1975.
The five-time world champions have won four of eight previous meetings with Spain (W4, D2, L2), but the two countries have not faced each other since 1999.
Brazil handed the Spanish their heaviest-ever World Cup defeat in 1950. They won 6-1 at the Maracana before going on to lose to Uruguay in the final.
Four of Brazil’s Confederations Cup squad play their club football in Spain.
Spain are on a record 29-match unbeaten run in competitive matches, stretching back to the 2010 World Cup (W24, D5).
La Roja’s only competitive win over Brazil came in the first round of the 1934 World Cup.
Spain have won their last six encounters against South American opponents in all competitions, including friendlies. The last Latin American side to beat Spain was Argentina in a friendly in September 2010.
Fernando Torres has scored five goals in his last three appearances for Spain.

PREDICTION
Both sides have shown fleeting moments of brilliance in the run up to the final without being overly impressive, with the Spanish finding it hard to adapt to the equatorial conditions. Brazil, of course, will be desperate to give their country’s morale a much-needed lift by winning their last competitive match before next year’s World Cup. However, it is hard to look past Spain, whose intricate passing game may prove too much for the Samba stars to handle.

Editor's Prediction
Brazil 1-2 Spain

30.06. (Sun) 18:00 Uruguay - Italy

PROBABLE LINEUPS

URUGUAY
Muslera
Pereira • Godín • Lugano • Cáceres
Rodríguez • Arévalo • Silva
Suárez • Cavani • Forlán

ITALY
Buffon
Barzagli • Bonucci • Chiellini
Maggio • Pirlo • Rossi • Giaccherini
Candreva • Marchisio
Shaarawy

Uruguay and Italy will feel hard done by as they battle for third place in the Confederations Cup rather than the trophy itself.

The South Americans had the stuffing knocked out of them by a late Paulinho header in their 2-1 defeat to Brazil in the semi-finals, while the Azzurri were beaten 7-6 in the most epic of penalty shoot-outs against Spain.

That leaves the two sides to battle it out on Sunday for what is effectively the tournament's wooden spoon, but both are expected to field strong sides and Uruguay could again start with their prized forward line of Diego Forlan, Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez.

Cesare Prandelli's only concern is the fitness of striker Alberto Gilardino, who suffered a knock against Spain, meaning Stephan El Shaarawy could get the nod after watching on from the bench in their last encounter.

DID YOU KNOW?
It's nearly two years since the two sides last met. Back in November 2011 Uruguay prevailed 1-0, with Sebastian Fernandez netting the only goal of the game.
In the eight games in which the nations have clashed, Uruguay have won three, Italy two, while there have been two draws.
Eight of Oscar Tabarez's Uruguay squad ply their club football in Italy.
He may have attracted interest from a host of big clubs, but Edinson Cavani's international record is a disappointing one. He has scored just six times in his last 28 games for Uruguay.
The Azzurri were beaten by Spain on penalties in the semi-finals, but they were the first side in 16 attempts to record a clean sheet against la Roja.
Uruguay's full-backs had best be on their guard - Italy have attempted more crosses than any other side in the competition (69).

PREDICTION
They've had a day less to recover than Sunday's opponents, but such was the impressive nature of their display against Spain in the semi-finals, Italy will have just enough left in the tank to edge past Oscar Tabarez's Uruguay.

Editor's Prediction
Uruguay 1-2 Italy

27.06. (Thu) 21:00 Spain - Italy

PROBABLE LINEUPS

SPAIN
Casillas
Arbeloa • Ramos • Piqué • Alba
Xavi • Busquets • Iniesta
Pedro • Torres • Silva

ITALY
Buffon
Barzagli • Chiellini • Bonucci
Maggio • Pirlo • Rossi • Giaccherini
Candreva • Marchisio
Gilardino

Spain will be hoping for a repeat of their Euro 2012 final victory over a weakened Italy team when they meet at the Castelao in the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup.

Vicente del Bosque is expected to select Iker Casillas to start in goal despite using all three goalkeepers already in the tournament. However, Roberto Soldado and Cesc Fabregas are doubts for the meeting after sitting out training on Monday. Fernando Torres is favourite to start ahead of the Valencia striker while Juan Mata and David Silva will be in contention to replace the Barcelona star.

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli is expected to use a three-man defence following injuries to Mario Balotelli and Ignazio Abate, neither of whom will feature again in the competition.

Alberto Gilardino will therefore start in attack while Daniele De Rossi and Andrea Pirlo will return from suspension and injury respectively to form the heart of midfield. Christian Maggio and Emanuele Giaccherini will begin the game as wing-backs, wide of an all-Juventus back line.

DID YOU KNOW?
Spain secured back-to-back European Championship titles when they trounced Italy 4-0 in the final of Euro 2012.
Fernando Torres is currently the highest scoring player in the competition with five goals in three games.
La Roja are the tournament's most prolific team with 15 goals in three fixtures, though 10 of those came against minnows Tahiti.
Italy hold the upper hand in previous meetings between the two nations's with 10 wins to Spain's nine in their 31 previous meetings.
The Azzurri have already improved upon their performance in the 2009 edition of the Confederations Cup where they were eliminated in the group stage.
Italy have only defeated Spain once in their previous eight encounters. That triumph came August 2011 when goals from Riccardo Montolivo and Alberto Aquilani secured a 2-1 win.
Gianluigi Buffon will move to within four appearances of joining Fabio Cannavaro as the nation's highest-capped player with 136 outings.

PREDICTION
In a repeat of the Euro 2012 final, Italy will be without some key players as they look to avenge last summer's defeat in Kiev. The Azzurri lost their previous game against hosts Brazil 4-2 and will be without Mario Balotelli as they look for an improved performance against Spain. However, Cesare Prandelli is expected to switch to a three-man defence which earned his team a 1-1 draw in the group stages of Euro 2012. They will need to press Spain with great intensity if they are to pick up the win, but la Roja will be confident that they have the extra quality to secure safe passage to the final.

Editor's Prediction
Spain 2-1 Italy

26.06. (Wed) 21:00 Brazil - Uruguay

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BRAZIL
César
Alves • Silva • Luiz • Marcelo
Gustavo • Paulinho
Hulk • Oscar • Neymar
Fred

URUGUAY
Muslera
Pereira • Lugano • Godín • Cáceres
González • Gargano • Pérez
Forlán • Suárez
Cavani

Brazil defender David Luiz is available for Wednesday's last-four clash against Uruguay after recovering from a bruised leg.

Midfielder Paulinho is set to return to the starting XI after missing the 4-2 win over Italy with an ankle injury, but Bernard (foot) is a doubt.

Hulk is expected to start ahead of Lucas Moura in attack, despite failing to impress in the group stage.

Uruguay captain Diego Lugano returns after serving a one-match ban for accumulating two yellow cards, but fellow defender Andres Scotti is ruled out after getting sent off in the 8-0 win over Tahiti.

Coach Oscar Tabarez is likely to persist with the attacking trio of Luis Suarez, Diego Forlan and Edinson Cavani despite Abel Hernandez's four-goal haul against the Pacific islanders.

DID YOU KNOW?
Brazil are on a four-match winning run and are unbeaten in their last nine.
The Selecao have won their last two encounters with Uruguay, including a 4-0 thumping in a World Cup qualifier in June 2009.
Luiz Felipe Scolari's first-ever match in charge of Brazil ended in a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay in July 2001.
Uruguay have won four of their last five international fixtures.
The two-time world champions have registered just one victory in their last seven encounters against South American opponents (W1, D2, L4).
It is 63 years since Uruguay's famous 'Maracanazo' victory, when they defeated hosts Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup final of 1950.
Luis Suarez scored his 35th and 36th goals for Uruguay in the win over Tahiti to replace Diego Forlan at the top of the all-time scorers' list.

PREDICTION
Uruguay's chances rest heavily on the triumvirate of Suarez, Forlan and Cavani firing, with especially Cavani needing to up his game by several notches after a tame showing in the group stage. Brazil have lit up the tournament with their adventurous style and are still gunning to avenge the defeat of 1950, but their back four will face its sternest test yet against the Celeste attacking trio.

Editor's Prediction
Brazil 2-1 Uruguay

23.06. (Sun) 21:00 Nigeria - Spain

PROBABLE LINEUPS

NIGERIA
Enyeama
Ambrose • Omeruo • Oboabona • Echiejile
Ogu • Mikel • Ogude
Musa • Ideye • Babatunde

SPAIN
Casillas
Arbeloa • Piqué • Ramos • Alba
Xavi • Busquets • Iniesta
Pedro • Soldado • Fàbregas

Nigeria midfielder Ogenyi Onazi will not be involved in Sunday's crunch clash against Spain in Fortaleza because of a knee injury.

Coach Stephen Keshi confirmed this week that the Lazio player will stay back in Nigeria for treatment after previously expressing optimism that he could be fit in time to feature in the tournament.

Winger Nnamdi Oduamadi is a doubt after picking up a knock in the defeat against Uruguay, while striker Ideye Brown could keep his place in the starting XI ahead of Anthony Ujah.

Spain are expected to recall several of their key players after fielding a largely second-string team against Tahiti.

Roberto Soldado may be preferred as the central striker ahead of Fernando Torres and David Villa, who shared seven goals between them in the 10-0 hammering of the Pacific islanders, having sat out following the 2-1 win over the Copa American winners.

DID YOU KNOW?
Nigeria have only won two of their last six international fixtures (W2, D3, L1). However, the 2-1 defeat to Uruguay on Thursday ended a 19-match unbeaten run.
The Super Eagles' only previous competitive encounter with Spain ended in a 3-2 victory in the group stage of the 1998 World Cup.
John Obi Mikel made his 50th appearance for Nigeria in the defeat against Uruguay, crowning the landmark with a goal.
Spain are on a five-game winning run and are unbeaten in their last 24 matches.
La Roja last faced African opponents in the previous edition of the Confederations Cup in 2009. They beat host nation South Africa 3-2 in the third-place play-off.
Only a defeat by four goals or more against Nigeria would put Spain at risk of elimination from the tournament.

PREDICTION
Nigeria require a bit of miracle to qualify for the semi-finals, seeing as they most likely will have to beat Spain and beat them well to keep their goal difference ahead of Uruguay. The Spanish will go out to win the group in style and book a mouth-watering semi-final date against either Italy or Brazil.

Editor's Prediction
Nigeria 0-2 Spain

23.06. (Sun) 21:00 Uruguay - Tahiti

PROBABLE LINEUPS

URUGUAY
Muslera
Pereira • Coates • Godín • Cáceres
González • Gargano • Arévalo
Forlán • Suárez
Cavani

TAHITI
Samin
Aitamai • Ludivion • Vallar • Tehau • Lemaire
Bourebare • Caroine • Vahirua • Chong-Hue
Tehau

Uruguay go into their final Group B fixture in third position, but will be confident of bettering Nigeria's result against Spain and reaching the semi-finals.

La Celeste's victory against the Super Eagles gave them the upper hand in the battle to advance, but they will be keen to show an improvement in front of goal and secure a large victory against the Oceania champions.

Oscar Tabarez will only be without Diego Lugano who is suspended having already picked up two yellow cards in the tournament. Liverpool's Sebastian Coates is therefore likely to fill in at the centre of defence.

The coach may take the opportunity to rotate some more players, despite the need for a large number of goals, but Uruguay cannot afford to underestimate their opponents at risk of enormous embarrassment.

Eddy Etaeta, meanwhile, has a full completent to select from in his Tahiti squad. The Pacific islanders, who have become the darlings of the tournament despite conceding 16 goals in two games, know that they face another tough test and will need to markedly improve defensively in order to keep the score down.

DID YOU KNOW?
Sunday will provide the first ever meeting between these two international sides.

Diego Forlan marked his 100th Uruguay appearance with the winning goal against Nigeria in midweek. He is now his country's highest scoring player ever with 34 goals.

La Celeste reached the semi-final stage in their only previous Confederations Cup campaign, ending the tournament in fourth position.

Tahiti suffered the competitions largest ever defeat when they lost 10-0 to World Champions Spain on Thursday. It was also the biggest loss in the nation's football history.
The current Oceania champions are ranked 138th in the Fifa rankings.
Eddy Etaeta's side are already eliminated from the tournament but have won the hearts of football fans across the globe.

PREDICTION
Uruguay will know that they will need to score a lot of goals against Eddy Etaeta's men in case the unthinkable should happen and Nigeria beat Spain in the group's other game. It is hard to see anything other than a landslide victory for La Celeste. The attacking trident of Diego Forlan, Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani will be hungry for goals should they all play, with the latter struggling in front of goal so far this tournament. Tahiti will need to improve defensively to avoid another double-digits defeat as their high line against Spain left them unbelievably exposed.

Editor's Prediction
Uruguay 7-0 Tahiti

22.06. (Sat) 21:00 Italy - Brazil

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ITALY
Buffon
Abate • Barzagli • Chiellini • Sciglio
Marchisio • Aquilani • Montolivo
Giovinco • Shaarawy
Balotelli

BRAZIL
César
Alves • Luiz • Silva • Luis
Hernanes • Gustavo
Lucas • Oscar • Neymar
Fred

With top spot up for grabs and a potentially difficult clash against Spain to avoid, both Cesare Prandelli and Luiz Felipe Scolari are unlikely to make too many changes as they seek three valuable points.

Having picked up yellow cards against both Mexico and Japan, Daniele De Rossi is suspended for the Azzurri whilst Andrea Pirlo is ruled out with a calf injury.

Claudio Marchisio and Alberto Aquilani are likely to deputise in the duo's absence whilst Prandelli must also decide who to play behind Mario Balotelli.

The 55-year-old coach could opt to rest Emanuele Giaccherini with Stephan El Shaarawy, Alessandro Diamanti and Sebastian Giovinco, who scored the winning goal against Japan, all vying for starting berths.

As for Brazil, David Luiz has been declared fit to start despite breaking his nose in the 2-0 win over Mexico and there is further good news for the Selecao as the in-form Neymar has shaken off a slight thigh injury.

However, Paulinho is unlikely to be risked by Scolari after the Corinthians midfielder suffered a minor ankle sprain and his place could be taken by Lazio's Hernanes.

Elsewhere, Hulk has failed to impress in the opening two matches and his spot on the right wing could be taken by PSG youngster Lucas Moura as Scolari looks to give some of his younger players international experience.

DID YOU KNOW?
Italy have not tasted victory against the Selecao for over 30 years. A Paolo Rossi hat-trick guided the Azzurri to a 3-2 win in the 1982 World Cup.
A double from Luis Fabiano and an own goal from Andrea Dossena gave Brazil a 3-0 victory over Italy in the 2009 Confederations Cup - a tournament they later went on to win.
A 2-1 victory against Mexico before Wednesday's 4-3 thriller against Japan ensured that Italy advanced to the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup for the first time in their history.
Current holders Brazil are the most successful side in the history of the tournament, with Luiz Felipe Scolari's team bidding for their fourth title.
The Selecao famously defeated the Azzurri on penalties to win the World Cup in 1994.
Brazil have only suffered one competitive defeat on home soil in the last 50 years - a 3-1 defeat to Peru in Belo Horizante at the 1975 Copa America.

PREDICTION
Cesare Prandelli's side were fortunate to escape with a win against Japan, who really exposed their defensive frailties. As for Brazil, Scolari is slowly starting to win over the home support and with five unanswered goals in the competition so far and Neymar in scintillating form, I expect the Selecao to emerge as narrow victors.

Editor's Prediction
Italy 1-2 Brazil

22.06. (Sat) 21:00 Japan - Mexico

PROBABLE LINEUPS

JAPAN
Kawashima
Uchida • Konno • Yoshida • Nagatomo
Hosogai • Endō
Okazaki • Honda • Kagawa
Maeda

MEXICO
Corona
Mier • Rodríguez • Moreno • Salcido
Torrado • Reyna
Santos • Zavala • Guardado
Hernández

With their hopes of reaching the Confederations Cup semi-finals dashed, Japan and Mexicowill face each other at the Mineirao on Saturday playing for little more than to avoid the ignominy of finishing bottom of Group A.
Neither team have registered a single point in the tournament so far, but major line-up changes are not expected on either side as they both aim to conclude their fruitless campaigns on something of a high.

Japan, who were eliminated on Wednesday after a devastating 4-3 defeat against Italy, have only one significant change to make, with captain Makoto Hasebe suspended after picking up two yellow cards.

Hertha Berlin’s Hajime Hogosai is the most likely candidate to replace the skipper, who conceded a penalty against the Azzurri, though Kengo Nakamura or Hideto Takahashi could also see action in midfield.

Meanwhile, Jorge Torres Nilo is in line to be dropped by Jose Manuel de la Torre from the Mexico defence, after a terrible performance during their 2-0 loss against Brazil, which ended their chances in the tournament.

In that event, Carlos Salcido is likely to win his 116th cap for el Tri by reverting to a left-back role, with Angel Reyna expected to assume Salcido’s place in midfield.

DID YOU KNOW?
After their first meeting in 1996, which ended in a 3-2 Japan victory, Mexico have won the last three matches between the two sides – including a 2-1 triumph in the 2005 Confederations Cup.

Javier Hernandez has struck Mexico’s only goal of the tournament; a penalty against Brazil. El Tri are scoreless from open play.

Japan hit the woodwork three times against Italy on Wednesday, and ended up losing the match despite holding a 2-0 lead by the 34th minute.

Both teams have qualified for the 1998, 2002, 2006 and 2010 World Cup tournaments. Japan will also contest the 2014 edition, while Mexico are in Concacaf’s final phase of qualifying for the competition.

PREDICTION
The pressure is off at the Mineirao for both sides, so expect to see a lot of goals as both coaches will probably set their teams up to give the fans a last hurrah before departing the tournament. However, Japan have shown themselves far more capable of putting the ball into the back of the net than Mexico, with four goals to one in Group A, and will likely triumph with the same swashbuckling style that caused Italy so many problems.

Editor's Prediction
Japan 4-2 Mexico

21.06. (Fri) 00:00 Nigeria - Uruguay

PROBABLE LINEUPS

NIGERIA
Enyeama
Ambrose • Oboabona • Omeruo • Echiejile
Ogude • Mikel • Mba
Oduamadi • Ideye • Musa

URUGUAY
Muslera
Pereira • Godín • Lugano • Cáceres
Ramírez • Gargano • Pérez • Rodríguez
Suárez • Cavani

It was a case of mixed fortunes for Nigeria and Uruguay in their opening Confederations Cup fixtures.

The history books will tell of a resounding 6-1 win for the Super Eagles over minnows Tahiti, but the Africa Cup of Nations champions were far from at their best and came in for criticism after the game.

Dynamo Kiev striker Ideye Brown could be named in the starting XI at the expense of Anthony Ujah or Ahmed Musa - both of whom failed to score against the Polynesian island.

Uruguay endured struggles of their own, as they went down 2-1 to Spain, in what was very much a one-sided affair against the world and European champions, though Oscar Tabarez may give the same XI a second chance to impress on Thursday.

DID YOU KNOW?
Victory for Nigeria will see them qualify for the Confederations Cup semi-finals.
AC Milan forward Nnamdi Oduamadi scored a hat-trick in the 6-1 win over Tahiti, prompting Rossoneri chief Adriano Galliani to call for him to be promoted to the first team next season.
The Super Eagles have kept just one clean sheet in their last five games but are unbeaten since defeat to Peru in May last year.
Uruguay had just six shots to Spain's 16 in their 2-1 defeat on Sunday.
The Copa America winners also enjoyed just 29% of possession, with la Roja dominating from start to finish.
Luis Suarez is Uruguay's top scorer in their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign with eight goals.

PREDICTION
Despite being firmly second best against Spain, Uruguay will fancy their chances of throwing themselves a Confederations Cup lifeline against a Nigeria side badly missing the attacking presence of Victor Moses and Ikechukwu Uche.

Editor's Prediction
Nigeria 1-2 Uruguay

20.06. (Thu) 21:00 Spain - Tahiti

PROBABLE LINEUPS

SPAIN
Valdés
Azpilicueta • Albiol • Martínez • Monreal
Fàbregas • Cazorla • Mata
Silva • Torres • Villa

TAHITI
Samin
Simon • Ludivion • Vallar • Caroine • Vero
Bourebare • Tehau • Chong-Hue • Vahirua
Tehau

Spain are expected to make wholesale changes to the team that beat Uruguay 2-1 on Sunday, with Victor Valdes, Fernando Torres and David Villa all in line for starts.

Defender Cesar Azpilicueta could win his third cap for the senior side, while the likes of David Silva and Jesus Navas are also set to make their first appearances of the tournament.

Tahiti have no new injury concerns after Nicolas Vallar overcame an ankle knock to play 53 minutes of the opening defeat against Nigeria.

Midfielder Jonathan Tehau scored the island nation's first ever goal in a major tournament against the African outfit and should keep his place in the starting XI.

DID YOU KNOW?
Spain are unbeaten in their last 23 matches, winning 16. Their last defeat came against England in November 2011.
La Roja's biggest ever recorded win is a 13-0 hammering of Bulgaria in an international friendly in May 1933.
Alvaro Arbeloa is in line to win his 50th cap for Spain.
Tahiti have lost six of their last eight international fixtures.
The South Pacific islanders are ranked 138th in the world - below the likes of Rwanda, Burundi and Puerto Rico.
Tahiti became the first nation other than Australia and New Zealand to clinch the Oceania Nations Cup last year.

PREDICTION
This Maracana showdown is the mother of all mis-matches, with 137 places separating the two sides in global rankings. Tahiti's defending against Nigeria was perilously haphazard at times, and their biggest ever losing scoreline - a 10-0 loss to New Zealand in 2004 - is likely to come under serious threat.

Editor's Prediction
Spain 9-0 Tahiti

20.06. (Thu) 00:00 Italy - Japan

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ITALY
Buffon
Abate • Barzagli • Chiellini • Sciglio
Rossi • Pirlo • Montolivo
Marchisio • Giaccherini
Balotelli

JAPAN
Kawashima
Uchida • Yoshida • Konno • Nagatomo
Hasebe • Endō
Okazaki • Honda • Kagawa
Maeda

Italy will be hoping to book a place in the Confederations Cup semi-final with victory over Japan on Wednesday at Arena Pernambuco, with Cesare Prandelli expected to keep faith with the same XI that beat Mexico 2-1 on Sunday.

Gianluigi Buffon is the only player from both sides that survives from the two nations' last meeting in an international friendly in 2001, though Prandelli could yet drop Emanuele Giaccherini for Stephan El-Shaarawy.

Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni, meanwhile, will be buoyed with Keisuke Honda's outing against Brazil on Saturday, with the CSKA Moscow player coming through unscathed despite previous injury worries.

With the Samurai Blue side needing a positive result to remain in the competition, Zaccheroni could well deploy Ryoichi Maeda up front and push Stuttgart's Shinji Okazaki out wide, as the Asian champions aim to spring a surprise.

DID YOU KNOW?
Italy qualified for the tournament by virtue of finishing runners-up at Euro 2012 - Spain qualified as world champions, with the Azzurri invited as Uefa's representative.
The 2006 world champions last encountered Japan in an international friendly in Saitama in 2001.
Japan qualified for the Confederations Cup by winning the 2011 Asian Cup in Doha.
This is Italy's second appearance in the tournament, after also qualifying in 2009. In contrast, this is the Asian side's fifth campaign.
Italian national Alberto Zaccheroni coached extensively in Serie A, winning the Scudetto with Milan in 1998-99.
Italy sit eighth in the world rankings, with Japan lying in 32nd place.

PREDICTION
The Azzurri face a tough test against the Samurai Blue, who themselves are fighting to remain in the competition after an opening day defeat to Brazil. Prandelli's side appeared comfortable at the weekend, and have enough ability to see off their Asian counterparts. Expect a low-scoring game, with Italy grinding out a narrow win.

Editor's Prediction
Italy 1-0 Japan

19.06. (Wed) 21:00 Brazil - Mexico

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BRAZIL
César
Alves • Silva • Luiz • Marcelo
Hulk • Gustavo • Paulinho • Oscar
Neymar • Fred

MEXICO
Corona
Mier • Moreno • Rodríguez • Salcido
Zavala • Torrado
Santos • Aquino • Guardado
Hernández

Luiz Felipe Scolari is spoilt for choice ahead of Brazil’s second Confederations Cup game against Mexico at the Castelao.

With the Selecao in fine form during their comprehensive 3-0 victory in Group A’s opener against Japan, and star player Neymar expected to shake off a minor knock picked up in the game, the 64-year-old’s main concern is deciding if to change a winning formula.

Atletico Miniero striker Jo, who scored as a second-half substitute against Japan, could start, with Hulk or Fred the most likely to miss out – though Lucas Moura may find it harder to displace Paulinho and Oscar in midfield.

But while Brazil could clinch a semi-final berth with victory, Mexico face a win or bust scenario, as such a result will all but confirm their elimination from the tournament after a 2-1 reverse to Italy on Sunday.

Jose Manuel de la Torre may be tempted to ring the changes after a sub-standard showing against the Azzurri, and Geraldo Flores could see his starting berth threatened by Hiram Mier after he was exposed as a weak link by Cesare Prandelli’s men.

DID YOU KNOW?
Mexico emerged victorious in the last full international between these two sides, defeating Brazil 2-0 in Texas last June.

El Tri also dispatched Selecao 2-1 in the final of the men’s football tournament at the 2012 summer Olympic Games.

Fourteen players from the gold medal game will make the trip to Fortaleza on Wednesday, though Leandro Damiao, who topped the scoring charts in London, was ruled out of Brazil’s Confederations Cup squad through injury.

Brazil have won 14 of the 23 clashes between the two sides, outscoring Mexico 44 goals to 25 in the process.

Julio Cesar and Thiago Silva, on 70 and 65 caps respectively, are the only players in the Brazil squad to top a half century of appearances for the senior national team.

By contrast, Mexico can list eight squad members who have played more than 50 international games, with Gerardo Torrado and Carlos Salcido boasting 255 caps between them – while Andres Guardado is five away from his century.

At 25. Javier Hernandez is already the fifth highest Mexican goalscorer of all time, with 33 strikes in 51 matches, and needs only 13 more goals to equal Jared Borgetti’s record tally of 46.

PREDICTION
Luiz Felipe Scolai appears to have finally got Brazil ticking in the attacking third against Japan, and the players will be eager to put on a show for their home fans. Mexico's defence looked vulnerable against Italy, and though Andrea Pirlo will not be around to punish such lapses, Brazil still have quite a few players able to cause damage from dead ball situations. It's difficult to look beyond a rejuvenated Brazil.

Editor's Prediction 
Brazil 3-1 Mexico

18.06. (Tue) 18:00 Italy U21 - Spain U21

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ITALY U21
Bardi
Donati • Bianchetti • Caldirola • Regini
Saponara • Verratti • Florenzi • Insigne
Borini • Gabbiadini

SPAIN U21
Gea
Montoya • Bartra • Martínez • Moreno
Illarramendi • Koke • Alcântara
Isco • Morata • Tello

Following their gritty performance in seeing off Netherlands in the semi-finals, Italy are likely to make few changes to their personnel, with only Fausto Rossi and Ciro Immobile likely to make way.

The Juventus midfielder struggled to deal with the combative nature of the Oranje central players in Petach-Tikva last Friday, while the Genoa striker was hauled off midway through the second half.

With that in mind, expect Alessandro Florenzi - who was deployed on the right flank - to be moved inside, with possibly the attacking guile of either Riccardo Saponara or Nicola Sansone as his replacement.

Meanwhile for Spain, their single alteration is likely to see Alvaro Morata, the competition's top scorer with four strikes to his name in Israel, return to the XI at the expense of the goal-shy Rodrigo.

David de Gea is also set to become Spain Under-21's joint-record appearance holder when he takes to the field in Jerusalem - equalling the haul of the side's assistant coach Santi Denia with 27 caps.

DID YOU KNOW?
The only nation to have won the trophy more times than Spain are Italy, with triumphs in 1992, 1994, 1996, 2000 and 2004.

Fabio Borini was an unused substitute in Italy's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2012 final.

The Azzurri have the upper hand psychologically on opposition coach Julen Lopetegui - he was on the bench when Spain lost to Italy in the 1994 World Cup quarter-finals.
Spain - unbeaten in 25 competitive matches - go into the final seeking to emulate the senior team's feat of back-to-back European titles.
They have become the first team to reach the showpiece without conceding a goal since the adoption of a group stage format in 2000.
Thiago Alcantara was born in Italy as his father Mazinho, a 1994 World Cup winner with Brazil, represented Fiorentina at club level.

17.06. (Mon) 21:00 Tahiti - Nigeria

PROBABLE LINEUPS

TAHITI
Roche
Simon • Ludivion • Caroine • Faatiarau • Vero
Bourebare • Tehau • Chong-Hue • Vahirua
Tehau

NIGERIA
Enyeama
Ambrose • Omeruo • Oboabona • Echiejile
Mba • Mikel • Ogude
Musa • Ideye • Oduamadi

One is Africa's leading nation with vast experience of international competition, while the other is a 138th-ranked island with a population of just 178,000.
Those two statistics alone mean there should be a vast gulf in class between the two sides on Monday, as they contest their opening Confederations Cup fixture.

But with Nigeria troubled by a dispute between the squad and the nation's football federation, Tahiti will hope to pull of one of the great shocks of international football.

They will be buoyed by the fact the Super Eagles are without Victor Moses, Emmanuel Emenike, Kalu Uche and Ogenyi Onazi through injury, while hoping centre-back Nicollas Vallar recovers from an ankle injury in time to aid their cause.

DID YOU KNOW?
Nigeria qualified for the tournament after winning the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 win over Burkina Faso.
The Super Eagles appeared in the original version of the competition - the King Fahd Cup back in 1995.
Nigeria beat Japan 3-0, drew 0-0 with Argentina and 1-1 with Mexico in that tournament - meaning they remain unbeaten in the Confederations Cup.
Tahiti are ranked 138th in the world - two places better off than Afghanistan.
The Polynesian island like to keep it in the family. Alvin, Lorenzo and Jonathan Tehau are brothers, while cousin Teaonui also plays for the national side.
Tahiti play their home fixtures at the 10,000-seater Stade Pater stadium.

PREDICTION
Nigeria head into their opening game of the competition in disarray following a bonus dispute between the squad and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). Despite that untimely distraction the Super Eagles should still have enough to see off Tahiti, who have just one full-time professional in their ranks.

Editor's Prediction
Tahiti 0-1 Nigeria

17.06. (Mon) 00:00 Spain - Uruguay

PROBABLE LINEUPS

SPAIN
Valdes
Arbeloa, Pique, Ramos, Alba
Xavi, Busquets, Iniesta
Pedro, Villa, Mata

URUGUAY
Muslera
M Pereira, Lugano, Godin, Caceres
Perez, Gargano, A Pereira
Cavani, Forlan, Suarez

Barcelona's Victor Valdes is set to start as Spain's goalkeeper in their Confederations Cup clash against Uruguay at the Arena Pernambuco.

Captain Iker Casillas featured in friendly wins over Haiti and the Republic of Ireland last week, but is unlikely to get the nod on Sunday, as he has not played for his club side Real Madrid since January.

Coach Vicente del Bosque will have to choose between David Villa and Fernando Torres in attack, with Cesc Fabregas offering another alternative as a 'false nine' striker.

Uruguay forward Luis Suarez is available after missing Tuesday's World Cup qualifier win over Venezuela through suspension.

Boss Oscar Tabarez could name an attack-minded side with Suarez, Diego Forlan and Edinson Cavani all starting together.

DID YOU KNOW?
Spain are unbeaten in their last 22 matches, winning 15.
La Roja have never lost to Uruguay in six previous encounters (W3, D3).
Spain are taking part in only their second Confederations Cup. Their only previous campaign ended with a third-place finish in 2009.
Uruguay have just won one of their last seven competitive matches (W1, D2, L4).
The Copa America winners lost 3-1 to Spain in a friendly in Qatar in February.
Luis Suarez (pictured, right) is Uruguay's top scorer in their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign with eight goals.

PREDICTION
Despite the Confederations Cup being little more than a warm-up exercise for next summer's World Cup, Spain will find plenty to motivate them as they bid to improve on their third place finish last time out. Uruguay are also in a decent run of form after back-to-back wins over France and Venezuela and should offer a sterner test to the world champions than they did in that friendly defeat in February.

Editor's Prediction
Spain 2-1 Uruguay

16.06. (Sun) 21:00 Mexico - Italy

PROBABLE LINEUPS

MEXICO
Corona
Flores, Rodriguez, Moreno, Salcido
Torrado, Zavala
Aquino, Dos Santos, Guardado
Hernandez

ITALY
Buffon
Abate, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Sciglio
De Rossi, Pirlo, Marchisio
Montolivo, Giaccherini
Balotelli

Mexico coach Jose Manuel de la Torre could be tempted to make several changes to the side which played out a lacklustre 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Mallorca attacker Giovani dos Santos started that match on the bench and the 24-year-old is expected to replace Guadalajara striker Aldo de Negris in a tactical change which would see el Tri change to a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Elsewhere Gerardo Torrado is looking to make his 142nd international cap in the heart of midfield whilst Javier Aquino could replace Pablo Barrera.

Mario Balotelli is eligible for Italy despite picking up a red card in the World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic last Friday although AC Milan teammate Stephan El Shaarawy is still nursing a minor ankle injury.

Cesare Prandelli has opted for a 4-3-2-1 formation in his training sessions this week with Juventus duo Emanuele Giaccherini and Claudio Marchisio supporting Balotelli.

Mattia De Sciglio could be given the nod to start at left-back as Prandelli looks to give some of his younger players international experience, although Giorgio Chiellini could be shifted out wide with Leonardo Bonucci in the centre.

DID YOU KNOW?
Italy made their Fifa Confederations Cup debut in 2009 but defeats to Brazil and Egypt ensured that Marcello Lippi's side were knocked out in the group stage.
Cuauhtemoc Blanco scored a joint-tournament record six goals en route to Mexico's 1999 Confederations Cup triumph, when the the hosts defeated Brazil 4-3 in the final.
The Azzurri eliminated Mexico from the 1970 World Cup but have failed to beat el Tri in their following four encounters, losing two and drawing two.
Cesare Prandelli's side have lost only one of their last 11 internationals - a 2-1 friendly defeat to France back in November.
Jose Manuel de la Torre's outfit are unbeaten since a 1-0 friendly defeat to USA last August - a run stretching back 13 games.
Andrea Pirlo is set to make his 100th international appearance.

PREDICTION
Mexico have scored only once in their last four World Cup qualifiers but they have proved a tricky opponent for Italy in recent times and I expect them to open their Confederations Cup campaign with a point.

Editor's Prediction
Mexico 1-1 Italy

15.06. (Sat) 21:00 Brazil - Japan

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

BRAZIL
Julio Cesar
Alves, David Luiz, Thiago Silva, Marcelo
Paulinho, Luiz Gustavo
Hulk, Oscar, Neymar
Fred

JAPAN
Kawashima
Uchida, Yoshida, Konno, Nagatomo
Endo, Hasebe
Okazaki, Honda, Kagawa
Maeda

It has been an underwhelming start to Luiz Felipe Scolari's second spell in charge of Brazil, but there are suggestions that the Selecao may finally have turned a corner.

Brazil came under fire for their leaky defence and inability to see off matches - as shown by their run of only one win in the former Chelsea coach's six games since his return.

However, a recent 3-0 victory over France has provided the perfect backdrop to Saturday's 2013 Confederations Cup opener, which will be hosted against Asian Cup champions Japan.

Thus, with Brazil firing on all cylinders against les Bleus on Sunday, expect an unchanged XI despite minor doubts about Neymar's fitness following knee complaints.

Meanwhile for their opponents Japan, who recently edged past Iraq to end a run of three matches without a win, they will line up with all their big guns - including Keisuke Honda and Yuto Nagatomo.

The pair had been missing from Samurai Blue contention, but they have successfully overcome knocks to represent their country this weekend.

DID YOU KNOW?
This will be Brazil's sixth consecutive appearance at the Confederations Cup.
The Selecao have won both of the last two editions in 2005 and 2009 respectively, as well as the 1997 competition.
Brazil gained automatic qualification to the tournament via their status as host nation.
This is Japan's fourth appearance at the World Cup dress rehearsal.
The furthest they have gone in the tournament is a runners-up finish in 2001.
Japan secured their place in the Confederations Cup over two years ago thanks to an Asian Cup triumph in 2011.

PREDICTION
The pressure will be on Brazil to make their mark on the tournament as hosts and on the back of their impressive win against France, expect them to start their Confederations Cup campaign with a bang.

Editor's Prediction
Brazil 3-1 Japan

15.06. (Sat) 20:30 Italy U21 - Netherlands U21

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

ITALY U21
Bardi
Donati, Bianchetti, Caldirola, Regini
Saponara, Florenzi, Verratti, Sansone
Gabbiadini, Destro

NETHERLANDS U21
Zoet
Van Rhijn, Martins Indi, De Vrij, Blind
Strootman, Fer, Van Ginkel
Wijnaldum, De Jong, John

Italy ended their group campaign with a 1-1 draw against Norway, but it was rather an opportunity to test fringe players after they had already secured qualification in their first two matches.

Nonetheless, coach Devis Mangia will not be able to call back Lorenzo Insigne into the side against Netherlands, although the ankle-injury victim could make an appearance from the substitutes' bench.

In his absence will be Nicola Sansone, fresh off the back of an impressive performance midweek, while Empoli's Vasco Regini is expected to edge out first-choice left-back Cristiano Biraghi.

Meanwhile for Netherlands, defender Bram Nuytinck has been ruled out for the rest of the European U21 Championship following the recurrence of an injury in his left knee.

The knock only rubbed more salt in the wounds of a 3-0 defeat to Spain, but up to 10 changes will be made by boss Cor Pot, with Kevin Strootman and Stefan De Vrij notably passing fitness tests to feature.

DID YOU KNOW?
Italy are the most successful country in the European U21 Championship, having won the competition six times.
They have also featured in the final a record 17 times, and are on course to do so again this year - providing they beat Netherlands.
The Azzurrini are unbeaten in their last five matches; they have also lost just three times since November 2009.
Netherlands, meanwhile, are one of the new superpowers at U21 level - their two successes in the tournament came in 2006 and 2007.
However, their run of seven straight victories was ended on Tuesday when they were stunned 3-0 by Spain to finish second in Group B.
Leroy Fer will equal Arnold Bruggink's record as the Netherlands' most-capped player at U21 level, with 31 appearances, if he features against Italy.
The first and last time these two sides met was back in May 2006, when a lone Daniel De Ridder goal was enough to tilt the scales in Netherlands' favour.
The winners will face that of Spain-Norway in the final on June 18 at Jerusalem's Teddy Stadium.

PREDICTION
The Dutch may possess the better team on paper, but it has been Italy's team ethic that has come to the fore during these championships. Expect a closely-fought contest between these two European rivals, but it should be the Azzurrini who ultimately progress to the final.

Editor's Prediction
Italy U-21 2-1 Netherlands U-21

15.06. (Sat) 17:30 Spain U21 - Norway U21

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

SPAIN U21
Gea
Montoya • Bartra • Martínez • Moreno
Alcântara • Illarramendi • Muniain
Tello • Isco
Morata

NORWAY U21
Håskjold
Elabdellaoui • Rogne • Berge • Strandberg
Singh • Johansen • Eikrem
Berget • Pedersen • Nielsen

Spain go into their European Under-21 Championship semi final against Norway on Saturday as firm favourites to reach the final for the second successive tournament.

Julen Lopetegui’s side are currently on a staggering 24-match unbeaten run at this level and the 2011 champions won all three of their group stage encounters without conceding a single goal.

Malaga midfielder Ignacio Camacho is the only injury doubt for la Roja after limping off against the Netherlands with a sprained ankle but is expected to recover in time for the semi-final showdown.

Group A runners up Norway are the tournament’s surprise package having booked their place in the final four at the expense of England and hosts Israel.

Like their opponents, the Scandinavians came through the group stages unbeaten and Tor Ole Skullerud has a fully fit squad to choose from after making nine changes for their 1-1 draw with Italy in Tel Aviv.

DID YOU KNOW?
Spain are looking to retain the championship having won the 2011 tournament in Denmark.
La Roja have won the Under-21 Championships three times in their history – only Italy (5) have won it on more occasions.
Alvaro Morata (pictured, right) is the tournaments top scorer with three goals, having netted in every group match.
Norway have never reached a final at any age group in Uefa competitions.

Their best performance at Under-21 level was a semi final appearance in 1998 – where they lost to Spain.
Harmeet Singh is the most experienced Under-21 player at this year’s tournament, winning 37 caps for Norway at this level.

PREDICTION
Norway have shown a lot of heart with their performances so far - fighting back with ten-men to snatch a draw with Israel and coming seconds away from a memorable victory against Italy - but it will take more than a bit of team spirit to derail Spain's route to the final. The holders have yet to concede a goal and that probably won't change in a comfortable victory in Netanya for Lopetegui's side.

Editor's Prediction
Spain U-21 3-0 Norway U-21

12.06. (Wed) 02:00 Spain - Ireland

PROBABLE LINEUPS

SPAIN
Casillas
Azpilicueta • Piqué • Ramos • Alba
Iniesta • Martínez • Xavi
Mata • Torres • Navas

IRELAND
Forde
Coleman • Ledger • Delaney • Kelly
Cox • McCarthy • Quinn • McClean
Sammon • Keane

Vicente del Bosque will look to continue his side's preparation for the 2013 Confederations Cup when they take on the Republic of Ireland at Yankee Stadium on June 11.

Goals from Cesc Fabregas and Santi Cazorla ensured La Roja picked up a 2-1 win against Haiti on June 8 and the duo will be keen to maintain pressure on Andres Iniesta and Xavi for a starting place against Ireland.

Fernando Torres started the game against Haiti, but Del Bosque will have a welcome selection headache with Roberto Soldado and record goalscorer David Villa also vying for a place.

Just four players remain in the Ireland squad from the team that lost to Spain at Euro 2012, with Simon Cox, Sean St Ledger, James McClean and Robbie Keane included for the tie.

Giovanni Trapattoni's Boys in Green will be without the services of several players, including Shane Long and Aiden McGeady, while goalkeeper Keiren Westwood has been ruled out with an injury, meaning David Forde is likely to start.

John O'Shea pulled out of the squad due to a bereavement, while Stoke City duo Marc Wilson and Jonathan Walters are both out of contention with injuries. Centre back Richard Dunne is also unavailable for the clash.

DID YOU KNOW?
Reigning world and European champions Spain are unbeaten in their last 21 games. Their last defeat came against England in a friendly at Wembley in November 2011, where a Frank Lampard goal was the difference between the sides.
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has been in charge of La Roja since July 2008, when he took over from Luis Aragones, who had just guided the team to glory in Euro 2008.

Barcelona striker David Villa is Spain's record goal-scorer, with 53 goals. He remains the only Spanish player to reach 50 international goals.
The Republic of Ireland have faced Spain on 25 occasions, winning only four times and losing 14. Their last win against Spain came in April 1989 at Lansdowne Road, where an own goal from Real Madrid's Michel granted an Irish victory.

Ireland last faced Spain in Euro 2012, where they lost 4-0, a game in which Spain set a record for the most passes made in a European Championships game (859).
Since meeting Spain a year ago in June 2012, Giovanni Trapattoni's Ireland have fallen 23 places in Fifa's World Ranking table to 41. Spain, meanwhile, have been continuously ranked number one since September 2011.

PREDICTION
Spain defeated Ireland with ease when the sides last met at Euro 2012 and, although Giovanni Trapattoni's team has changed significantly, La Roja should find little difficulty against a weakened Irish defence.

Editor's Prediction
Spain 2-0 Ireland

„Rakete” iz Koreje SLOBODAN BOBE PAVKOVIĆ (SINGAPUR) ANALIZIRA AZIJSKE KVALIFIKACIJE ZA SP

Slobodan Bobe Pavković ogromno azijsko prostranstvo „spakovao” je u mali prst. Nekadašnji prvotimac Vojvodine i Partizana, kasnije uspešan trener i selektor, već nekoliko godina nalazi se na mestu tehničkog direktora Fudbalskog saveza Singapura, pa je upućen u sva zbivanja na najmnogoljudnijem kontinentu.

GRUPA A
LIBAN - J. KOREJA 2 - Domaćin igra nepredvidivo. Može da iznenadi i jače od sebe, ali i da izgubi već „dobijen” meč. Ipak, kvalitet je u velikoj meri na strani gostiju. Južna Koreja je najozbiljniji tim u svojoj grupi.

GRUPA B
JAPAN - AUSTRALIJA 1 - Gosti ni sa novim selektorom nisu zabeležili očekivani napredak u svojoj igri, pa je Japan, koji je već obezbedio plasman na Mundijal, veliki favorit na ovom meču.

02.06. (Sun) 21:00 Brazil - England

PROBABLE LINEUPS

BRAZIL
Cesar
Alves, Thiago Silva, Luiz, Marcelo
Ramires, Paulinho, Moura
Neymar, Hulk, Damiao

ENGLAND
Hart
Johnson, Jones, Lescott, Cole
Carrick, Lampard, Milner
Walcott, Rooney, Welbeck

Premier League-based trio David Luiz, Ramires and Julio Cesar are all expected to start, while Oscar will be competing against the likes of Lucas Moura and Paulinho for a spot in midfield.

New Barcelona striker Neymar could feature from the off, as youngster Bernard while be hoping to add to his one cap after his surprising call-up to the Confederations Cup squad.

For England, striker Daniel Sturridge (ankle ligament) is waiting on scan results after injuring himself during Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Republic of Ireland. Jermain Defoe came on in place of the Liverpool man at Wembley to partner Wayne Rooney, but is struggling with an Achilles problem, while Danny Welbeck will also be hoping for some game time.

Roy Hodgson may well change his central defensive partnership as he continues to decide on his first choice pairing following the retirements of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand, while the more experienced James Milner will be hoping for a start after being afforded just a short cameo against Ireland.

DID YOU KNOW?
The last time Brazil hosted England at Maracana was in 1984, when goals from John Barnes and Mark Hateley secured a famous 2-0 win for the visitors.
Despite being just 21 years old, Neymar is the highest-scoring member of the current Selecao squad with 20 goals.
Brazil legend Ronaldo scored his first ever international goal against England, in a 3-1 win at Wembley in 1995.
England won their last meeting with Brazil, in February, but that was their first triumph over Selecao since 1990.
Wayne Rooney has scored seven goals in his last eight games for the Three Lions.
The game on Sunday marks the official reopening of the Maracana before the 2014 World Cup - these two teams also met to mark the senior England side's first competitive game at the new Wembley in 2007.