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Brazil v Australia
18/06/2006: Full Time Report 2-0
Despite a battling and organised performance, the underdogs Australia went down 2-0 to the reigning champions Brazil. The competition favourites went ahead through Adrianoin the dying minutes when Fred latched onto a Robinho rebound. The Socceroos had their chances and were unlucky on a number of occasions. Overall, however, it was another scrappy display from Brazil.
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After much hype and expectation, World Cup holders Brazil failed to impress in their opening game against Croatia.
The reigning champions won the game 1-0, but it took an individual effort by AC Milan midfielder Kaka to spare the South Americans from ping points. The young midfielder was one of the only Brazilian players to shine during the match, although Brazil were by far the most dominant side.
Real Madrid striker Ronaldo was particularly targeted for criticism. His lacklustre display led to him being substituted and he has since been accused of being overweight.
There were doubts that Ronaldo would make the next game after he was sent to hospital due to spells of dizziness and headaches. Doctors have now given him the all-clear to play, however. Whether the coach will play him or him to the bench in favour of Robinho, who looked far livelier when he came on against Croatia, is another matter.
In contrast, Australia could scarcely have scripted a better start to only the second World Cup finals campaign in their history, as they powered their way to a 3-1 victory over Japan in their opener.
Substitute Tim Cahill grabbed a brace and he could be a good value bet to score the first goal ion the match against Brazil. Harry Kewell also looked dangerous and the Japanese defence also struggled to deal with the power and close control of striker Mark Viduka.
With confidence now flowing through the veins of the Socceroos, captain Viduka has now firmly set his sights on pulling off what would surely be the greatest World Cup upset of all time by beating the all-star Brazil side.
In truth though, it is unlikely that Brazil will play as badly as they did against Croatia again and Australia could find themselves on the end of a Brazilian backlash.
World Player of the Year Ronaldinho will surely perform better as he was largely anonymous during the opening fixture. It is also a fair bet that striker Adriano will use his pace and power to greater effect against Australia.
Aussie keeper Mark Schwarzer may have to pull off one of the greatest games of his life if Australia are to finish the game with anything to show for it.
Despite their poor form going into the game, Brazil are unsurprisingly still the hot favourite to win it, at odds of around evens. Optimistic Aussies can get odds of 11/1 on their side turning the champions over.
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