Robinho strikes to give Brazil the lead.Brazil took the lead through the in-form Robinho, who reacted quickest to slot home after a defender's clearance had cannoned off Kaká. The Santos man doubled his tally later in the first half, powerfully heading home a delightful cross from Michel Bastos. The left-back provided a real threat going forward, but questions continue to be asked in the Brazilian media about his defensive efficacy; both Zimbabwe and Tanzania have had considerable joy attacking down Brazil's left in the last two friendlies.
Substitute Ramires added a third for Brazil on 53 minutes, receiving a perceptive pass from Josué, motoring past his marker and smashing home left-footed. It was a timely reminder of the youngster's rare combination of pace and power. Twenty minutes later came the moment that Brazil had been waiting for; a goal for Kaká. Having suffered an injury-hit and indifferent season (by his high standards at least), some concerns have been voiced over the pressure put on the playmaker to propel an otherwise functional Brazil side to glory in South Africa. His goal against Tanzania (bundled in off his chest after Maicon's cross) was celebrated in an uncharacteristically sombre manner, and the player himself admitted after the game that he was "looking forward to enjoying [his] football again" after returning to full fitness.
Brazil's National Union of Right-Backs provides some emotional support for Kaká.Some shoddy defending from a corner allowed Aziz to pull a goal back to the delight of the home fans, but it was Brazil who had the last say; Ramires headed home Daniel Alves' cross for his second of the evening. A good afternoon's work for Dunga's men, and thankfully no injury worries to sweat over.
(Photo credits; (1) Rebecca Blackwell/AP, (2) Ari Ferreira.)
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