Brazil earn narrow Berlin victory

A lacklustre performance from reigning world champions Brazil has seen them earn a 1-0 victory over Group F rivals Croatia at the Olympiastadion in Berlin overnight (AEST).

The Brazilian’s looked anything but world class, as the Croatians forced the South American’s defence into action on many occasions during the first half in particular, with Ranger’s striker Dado Prso and fellow countrymen Ivan Klasnic forcing saves out of goalkeeper Dida.

Up front for Brazil form and fitness appeared to be a major issue for both Ronaldo and Adriano, with neither offering much in attack, something which will concern coach Carlos Alberto Parreira as they head towards their Group F match with Australia next week.

It wasn’t until the 44th minute, and a piece of Kaka magic, which provided the one and only goal for Brazil, when he curled a left foot strike past Croatian keeper Stipe Pletikosa.

Ronaldo was eventually replaced in the 55th minute, in a move which saw his fellow Real Madrid striker Robinho join the fray, and whilst the youngster looked lively in his time on the field, the score remained 1-0 at fulltime.

Carlos Alberto Parreira has already stated Ronaldo will start the next match against Australia, from Munich on the 19th June at 2:00am (AEST), and the reigning champions know they will meet an Australian side brimming with confidence after their 3-1 victory over Asian Champions Japan in Kaiserslauten the other day.

For Croatia, coach Zlatko Kranjcar can take a lot out of the game, and the squad will have been buoyed by the strong support they received from the Croatian fans. Their only fitness worry going into their clash against Japan on the 18th of June at 11:30pm (AEST) is their captain Niko Kovac, who had to be replaced due to a suspected rib injury late in the first half.

Stadium: Olympiastadion, Berlin, Germany
Attendance: 72,000
Match Time: 20:00 UK
Referee: Armando Archundia (Mexico)

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