Confederations Cup 2013: Title Shows Brazil Will Be Dangerous in 2014 World Cup

There wasn't a lot of enthusiasm about Brazil's World Cup chances heading into the 2013 Confederations Cup. 

That all changed on Sunday, as the Selecao surged to a 3-0 victory over world No. 1 Spain in Rio de Janeiro.

In the victory, Neymar—who was booed just two months ago in Brazil's 2-2 draw against Chile—starred en route to being named the tournament's Golden Ball winner. His goal in the 44th minute, which gave the Brazilians a 2-0 lead, was a thing of beauty, soaring high into the net beyond the outstretched arms of Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

But the 2013 Confederations Cup didn't just signify Neymar's tremendous growth at just 21 years of age; it signified Brazil's return to being  a legitimate threat in the World Cup. As the Brazilians look ahead to the global showcase in 2014, they have a powerful side complete with their young star, Oscar, Fred and David Luiz.

And while the victory in Rio de Janeiro certainly doesn't automatically hand Brazil the World Cup in 2014 or even make the Selecao the favorite, there is no doubt that this young, talented squad is more than just talent: It has chemistry, as well.

Credit coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, hired back in late 2012 to guide Brazil back to the World Cup title it last saw in 2002. Scolari has Brazil playing an exciting and—more importantly—effective brand of football, which is more than could have been said about former coach Mano Menezes.

This is a riveting time for Brazilian football after placing fifth and sixth in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, respectively. There is still plenty of work to do before the Brazilians host the World Cup in 2014, but the victory on Sunday at least marked a return to relevance. 

Scolari said after the match, via FIFA.com: "We are still not a team that is complete, we know that we have a good group, but we still have to prove a lot. But today, we embarked on the path to 2014." 

Spain was blindsided by Brazil on Sunday. You can bet the Spanish won't be sleeping in the 2014 World Cup. But, at least for one day, Brazil was the superior side. That, indeed, is progress.

Who's booing now?