Juan Mata believes the absence of AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli is a boost for Spain and weakens the Italian side ahead of Thursday night's Confederations Cup semi-final.
Uruguay boss Oscar Tabarez believes it would have been a different result had Diego Forlan not missed his first half penalty kick in their 2-1 defeat to Brazil in the Confederations Cup semi-final.
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard expects Pepe Reina to stay and fight for the No.1 shirt at Anfield after the signing of Simon Mignolet from Sunderland.
New Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti insists that Cristiano Ronaldo is central to his plans at the Bernabeu and it will be an honour to coach such a great player.
Tottenham target Paulinho rose highest to head home a Neymar corner in the 86th minute to send the host nation into the final where they will face either Spain or Italy.
Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla does not think the managerial changes at the Premier Leagues top three sides will make next seasons title race any easier.