The Confederations Cup final will be decided by a number of matchups, but one of the more essential performances will likely come from the goaltenders. Which team has the decided advantage in goal? Here is a breakdown of the netminders.
Brazil: Julio Cesar
The Brazilian goalie has struggled in the last few years with the Queens Park Rangers and the national side but his career has been seemingly revitalized under Luis Felipe Scolari. Cesar has not been tested continuously but has made tremendous saves when called upon. During the semifinal against Uruguay, Cesar made a terrific stop to keep the ball out of his net on a penalty kick against Diego Forlan and ultimately swayed the match in his team's favor.
Cesar has been the mainstay for Brazil since 2007-08 and has led the team to a Confederations Cup championship.
Spain: Iker Casillas
The 32-year old goalie suffered through the most embarrassing season of his formidable career in 2012-13 when he was injured and eventually benched for the last half of Real Madrid's season. There were a number of questions regarding his physique and mental preparedness for this tournament, but Casillas has acquitted himself quite well in his two matches. He made a few terrific saves during the match against Italy despite looking lost during the penalty kick shootout.
Casillas has not conceded a goal in knockout rounds since Spain lost 2-0 against the United States in the Confederations Cup back in 2009. He has led the team to two Euro Cup championships and a World Cup victory; he will be hungry for his first Confederations Cup trophy and will likely step his game in the big match.
Edge: Casillas would have the edge on any other day, but Cesar has looked terrific for Brazil in this tournament and should not be overlooked. Even.
To find out Why Brazil will win, click HERE.