South Africa have nothing to lose: Brazilian striker

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Brazil face South Africa in Confederations Cup semi-finals.

New Delhi: Brazilian striker Luis Fabiano says South Africa will be dangerous opponents in their semi-final on Thursday – but adds that he doesn't think there will be any more surprises.

The two sides square off at Ellis Park with the Brazilians overwhelming favourites, especially after their 3-0 demolition job of Italy. Fabiano scored two in that game and is now already looking forward to a meeting with Spain in the Final.

"It will be an advantage for Spain because they will have had an extra day's rest and the more you rest, the better you play,” he is quoted as saying by News24. "Egypt beating Italy and the US qualifying, those have been the surprises. I do not think there will be others."

"But we will still have to be on our guard against South Africa. We need to go into the semifinal with the same concentration that we had for the game against Italy. The game against South Africa is very important. They will run for their lives and have nothing to lose. If they lose, it is normal, but if they win, it will be like a holiday."

Meanwhile, holding midfielder Gilberto Silva has sounded a warning to Bafana Bafana and whoever else might cross the Brazilians' path – he says they will still get better.

"We have a group boasting great individual talent and skill," he added. "But with a complement of young newcomers joining the squad alongside the established players, we needed the time and match competition to gel into an effective unit. That is what has now happened."

"However, with everything falling into place, we are still enthusiastic and looking to get better. Ninety-nine percent is good, but we are striving for 100 per cent."