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Eight teams will begin play in the Soccer Betting Confederation Cup next weekend as the two week tournament begins in South Africa. Most of the eight teams are sending their best players so it should be an exciting tournament to watch.
Brazil and Spain are sending their top stars while the United States and Italy also will field strong teams.
The toughest group is definitely the one that has Brazil, World Cup champion Italy, the United States and African champion Egypt. The other group looks like a walk for Spain as they have Asian champion Iraq, New Zealand and South Africa in that group.
While much of the attention will be on the eight teams, some people will be watching the host country of South Africa to make sure they can put on a safe tournament. Since the 2010 World Cup will be held in South Africa, many people want to make sure that South Africa is up to the challenge.
The early signs are not encouraging as 30 percent of the tickets are unsold.
The favorite for the Soccer Betting Confederation Cup looks to be Brazil with a number of stars including Kaka, Ronaldinho, Robinho and Alexandre Pato on the squad. "It's always about results when it comes to the Brazilian national team," coach Dunga said. "The fans want results, we all know that."
If Brazil is not the leading candidate to win the Confederation Cup then it would have to be Spain. Many players from Barcelona's team that won the Champions League will be headed to South Africa. "It's been a great season both personally and professionally," said Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, "We are going to South Africa to win the tournament." Spain is led by Fernando Torres and David Villa upfront along with midfielders Xavi Hernandez, Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso.
Italy is also sending a strong squad to South Africa. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, defender Fabio Cannavaro, midfielder Andrea Pirlo and striker Luca are expected to be on the team. "We're going to try to treat it with respect," he said. "But the team that wins the Confederations Cup never wins the World Cup. So I'm not sure I want to win it." Italy coach Lippi said.
The United States looks overmatched in their grouping especially considering their recent play in World Cup Qualifiers. They lost to Costa Rica and just got by Honduras. "I think we all recognize that the spotlight will be much brighter next year. But in that regard, maybe it's part of what makes it a great opportunity," head coach Bob Bradley said. "You're playing against top teams, and yet you're doing it at a time when maybe there's a little less focus and it gives you a chance to size up a lot of things."
Iraq, Egypt, New Zealand and South Africa look overmatched in the Confederation Cup.
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