FIFA president Sepp Blatter has declared the 2013 Confederations Cup as the best ever despite often violent protests that have swept Brazil.

Speaking during a media conference here on Friday, Blatter said the event had given world football's governing body confidence in Brazil's ability to stage next year's World Cup.

"When we have a look on the pitch of football, it was easy to say that it was the best Confederations Cup that we have ever organized," Blatter said.

"The tournament was played in a situation where there was definitely social unrest, with protests and manifestations, but finally, the football has played a positive part here, by giving emotion.

"Definitely football is going out from this competition with a clear message: yes, it was a good competition, and we are happy to be back here next year for the FIFA World Cup with the 32 teams and 64 matches."

Protests which were initially aimed at rising public transport fares in Sao Paulo have turned into a nation-wide movement against bad governance and corruption.

Many demonstrators expressed anger at the government's decision to spend billions of dollars on World Cup stadiums instead of improvements to dire public services like health, education and transport.

Police have been forced to fire rubber bullets and tear gas to quell outbreaks of violence during rallies in several cities.

President Dilma Rousseff, who has already announced plans for a plebiscite on political reform in response the marches, was loudly jeered during the tournament's official opening in Brasilia on June 15.

Officials said on Friday she was yet to confirm her presence at Sunday's final in Rio de Janeiro.

Blatter denied FIFA had been a target for protestors.

"I can understand this social unrest, absolutely, but on the other hand, football is bringing this whole continent emotions and hope," he said.

"You've seen the reaction from the cabinet of government - they promised to change things. This is not our problem, it's a political problem."

And the 77-year-old Swiss rejected suggestions FIFA had considered suspending the World Cup warmup event.

"There was never a doubt for FIFA concerning this competition, to stop it or even to think about a Plan B.

"It is a question of trust and confidence, in the government, but also in the population of Brazil, because they like football. I'm sure next year's World Cup will be a success." Endi

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