Despite thundering horns of South African fans all around the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, European champions Spain on June 28 regained its vigor and took the third place of the FIFA Confederations Cup by beating hosts 3-2.
Spain has gone through a difficult period after being defeated by North American champions the Untied States and edged out of the final.
It was also the first victory of the Stars and Stripes over Spain in the country's soccer history. The loss also broke the unbeaten record of 35 matches held by La Roja, which was shared by Brazil between 1993 and 1996.
In the bid to the third place, Spain tried to spring back to life. The first goal opportunity fell on Valencia striker David Villa in the fourth minute. He tried to kick the ball into the far corner for La Roja with a beautiful curling, but it was palmed away by South African goalkeeper Iker Casillas who has been playing for Real Madrid.
South African defender Matthew Booth got a great chance ten minutes later when the Bafana Bafana had a free kick, but his powerful header went wide. The first half ended scoreless.
The match however was marked by stunning twists and turns after the interval. The Bafana Bafana broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, with substitute Katlego Mphela sent the ball home with a powerful shot.
