Mika, Portugal’s outstanding goalie who had not conceded a goal in 574 minutes found he had feet of clay against Oscar who completed a memorable hat trick to lead the Brazilians to their fifth U20 title. The former colony reversed their 1991 penalty shoot out defeat (4-2) against Portugal.
Brazil went to their deep bench introducing Negueba, a force on the right with his speed and great crossing ability and Allan after halftime. The match turned around when Dudu, the super sub coming off the bench showed great footwork to get better of the packed Portugese defense and found Oscar on the rebound for Brazil’s equalizer in the 78th minute. Till then Portugal looked like it was coasting to victory.
In the 110th minute Oscar launched a beautifully measured ball which found Mika reacting a fraction too late for all the critical winner. Congratulations, Brazil! The 2011 class has some outstanding talent and just in time for the 2014 World Cup.