Five lessons learnt from the 2013 Confederations Cup

Andres Iniesta of Spain looks on with his team-mates at half-time during the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013 Final between Brazil and Spain at Maracana on June 30, 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Getty Images)

2. Spain are beatable

Brazil ended Spain 29-match unbeaten run at competitive international matches but more than the manner of the defeat spelled a definite end to their absolute domination of world football. It was an attack on their philosophy of football as they crumbled under the relentless pressure of Brazil’s midfield.

They could not monopolise the possession and were attacked on the flanks. Alvaro Arbeloa and Jordi Alba struggled to cope with their defensive duties. However, they cannot be ruled out from making a strong return next year especially once they restore the double pivot with Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets.