The States storm through to semi-finals, although Spain look the value at even money

If the 2010 World Cup can match the 2009 Confederations Cup in terms of excitement, then we're in for one hell of a tournament in twelve months time. The group stage of the tournament has now finished, with Group B providing more twists and turns than an Agatha Christie novel. Most people expected Brazil and Italy to waltz through the section and take their place in the semi-finals, although the Azzurri have been sent spinning out of the competition after a 3-0 defeat to the Brazilians.

Egypt were best placed to take advantage of this result, although the United States had other ideas, pulling a rabbit from the hat by beating their opponents 3-0. This means that the Americans take their place in the semi-finals, despite losing their opening two group games. There will be some happy betfair customers after witnessing goals from Davies, Bradley and Dempsey. £31 has been matched on the Eagles winning this tournament at odds of 1000/1, with the USA now as short as 16/1 (Centrebet) to go all the way.

Nevertheless, they will be up against Spain in the semi-finals, with Vicente Del Bosque's team now boasting an unbeaten run of thirty-five matches since losing 1-0 to Romania in November 2006. Indeed, many might think that the even money (Stan James) that the Euro 2008 winners add the Confederations Cup to the trophy cabinet as an absolute steal, with the team having won all their matches without conceding a goal.

The other semi-final pits Brazil against South Africa, something which is sure to be an entertaining contest. The five-time World Cup winners are 11/10 (bet365) to win this tournament after knocking out Italy, although their 4-3 win over Egypt highlighted that they look more vulnerable in defence than the Spanish. Nevertheless, the hosts will seriously need to raise their game to be in with a chance of victory, with Blue Square offering 25/1 that the Saffers win the Confederations Cup and get the nation buzzing ahead of the World Cup.