Brazil overcome stubborn Wales
Ronaldinho played for just over an hour as Brazil beat Wales 2-0
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Tuesday, 05, Sep 2006 10:28
Wales held Brazil for an hour at White Hart Lane, but two fine goals meant the South Americans eventually ran out 2-0 winners.
John Toshack's men matched the five-times world champions for much of the first-half, not in the least over-awed by the visitors' illustrious reputation.
Robert Earnshaw could even lay claim to the best chance of the first 45 minutes as he saw his shot blocked by the Brazil keeper Gomes.
Youngster Gareth Bale had a dream start to his international career, twice dispossessing world player of the year Ronaldinho in the opening period, but Brazil's technical superiority gradually came to the fore.
Kaka, who inspired his side to an impressive 3-0 win over rivals Argentina at the weekend, exerted an increasing influence from midfield as the game progressed.
After testing Paul Jones with a stinging long-range effort, he played in striker Vagner Love only to have the move ended by the linesman's flag.
It was another teenage defender who finally opened the scoring as left-back Marcelo drilled the ball home for Brazil from well outside the area.
Ronaldinho made way for Robinho just five minutes later, but gave the crowd a last glimpse of his exquisite skill just before departing.
Finding an inch of space on the edge of a packed penalty box, the Barcelona playmaker threaded a curling shot just wide of the upright.
Love added a second with a header rounding off a slick move which allowed Brazil to coast home to victory.