USA hoping for third miracle at Confederations Cup

The United States, described as miracle workers by FIFA president Sepp Blatter after stunning wins over Egypt and Spain, feel another one coming up in tomorrow's Confederations Cup final against Brazil.

The US team looked dead and buried going into their last Group B game after heavy defeats to Brazil and Italy, but Bob Bradley's side caught fire to burn off the Egyptians 3-0 and smother Spain 2-0.

That earned them a second crack at Brazil, with Bradley predicting another upset as the US close in on their first major international honour.

"I believe when we play as a team and find the right balance between being aggressive and smart then yes we're confident (of another miracle)," Bradley said yesterday.

Michael Bradley, the coach's son who picked up a harsh red card against Spain, misses out with the Borussia Moenchengladbach midfielder's place due to be taken by Benny Feilhaber.

Huge interest
The Stars and Stripes' unlikely journey at this World Cup warm-up has triggered huge interest back home and Bradley senior spelled out what was at stake on Sunday at Ellis Park. "It would be very important if we won. We won the CONCACAF Gold Cup, that's the reason we're here, but to win a competition playing against the likes of Spain, Italy, Egypt and Brazil would be very special."

Reflecting on the attention his side are attracting on the other side of the Atlantic he noted: "Over the last few days the players will tell you they've had lots of friends who have sent them texts, and e-mails and twitters and facebook whatever, all saying how excited they are and telling the players what a good job they're doing and wishing them luck."