Kaka Rules Over Zidan

This year’s Confederations Cup came to life today with Brazil’s enthralling 4-3 victory over Egypt. Bringing together the champions of Africa with the champions of South America, the captivating match shed light on global talents:

Egyptian National Team – The Pharaohs are not a side to be taken lightly. Following victory in the African Nations Cup in 2008, Egyptian football has progressed dramatically with several players plying their trade in the top European leagues. Though qualification to next year’s Finals in South Africa is far but assured, with the likes of Mohamed Shawky and Mohamed Aboutrika pulling the strings in midfield the Egyptians look odds on to cause a few surprises come next summer.

Kaka – What can we say that hasn’t already been said? Though ₤56 million is an awful lot of money to pay for a footballer’s services, Kaka proved again why he just might be worth that much. The Brazilian’s opener against Egypt was all about technique. Controlling a lobbed pass from Dani Alves outside the penalty box, Kaka swerved between two Egyptian players before a slight tap of the ball over a final defender’s flailing leg sent him clear through on goal. Finishing with a gentle side-foot beyond the keeper into the far corner, his faultless technique is worth purring over. Kaka’s second goal, late in the second half, was coolness personified. Following several minutes of stoppage to tend to a fake Al-Muhammadi head injury, Kaka stepped up to take the decisive penalty and slot the ball calmly home. The Bernabeu awaits.

Zidan – No, this is not a spelling mistake. In Mohamed Zidan, Egypt possess an experienced and intelligent striker in the prime of his career. Though his two superbly taken goals against Brazil, a sweet header and a thunderous drive, will have alerted future opponents of his potential danger, having experienced top level competition with Hamburg and Borussia Dortmund, Zidan will have acquired the drive and discipline to rise above the competition.

Zidan comes at you from every angle