Brazil blanks Spain for Confed Cup crown

Fred scored two goals and Neymar added another as host Brazil defeated world champion Spain 3-0 to win the Confederations Cup on Sunday as protesters clashed with riot police outside the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

Fred put Brazil on the board less than two minutes into the match, Neymar added to the lead just before halftime and Fred netted his fifth goal in five matches early in the second half to give Brazil victory. The win for the host nation was surprisingly easy against the current world champion.

Sergio Ramos missed a penalty kick for Spain in the 55th, sending his low shot wide.

Spain defender Gerard Pique was sent off with a straight red card for fouling Neymar in the 68th.