The favourites in pool B, Brazil and Italy, have both won their opening matches in the the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

Brazil beat Egypt 4-3 in an exciting match. Kaká scored the first goal only five minutes into the game. At half time the match looked like it was in the bag for Brazil with the score 3-1. However, Mohamed Zidan and Mohamed Shawky brought Egypt back to level pegging within just 10 minutes of the second half.

Star player Kaká saved the match for Brazil with a penalty during injury time after Egypt’s Ahmed El Mohamadi used his arm to stop the ball on the goal line. Egypt has submitted an official protest because the referee's decision was based on video footage and was taken after he was criticised by the Brazilian players.

In its opening match Italy has won 3-1 against the US. At half time Italy was behind the US 1-0.

The tournament is a dress rehearsal for next year’s World Championships. World champions Italy, host South Africa and six champions of the regional football federations are participating in the tournament.

Photo: Flickr