Brazil won in convincing fashion over Egypt in Doha by a final score of 2-0. Jonas bagged both goals for the South American giants who took care of Egypt on the debut night for former US head coach Bob Bradley. The Pharaohs showed some bright moments with a few intricate passing sequences early on and a couple long-range shots but they could not muster much of an offensive punch when it mattered most. Egypt had done a good job of breaking up the Brazilian attacks in the beginning of the first half. The aptly named Hulk had a chance however when he barreled through the Egyptian backline and had a clear chance on goal but his shot sailed wildly over the goal. Egypt had trouble defending their flanks most of the night with many of the Brazilian offensive forays coming down the sides. Until Brazil's goal in the 39th minute neither side had really made an impact on the game. Hulk proved to be dangerous once again when he played in a powerful low cross into the six-yard box which got past Egypt goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawi and stalwart defender Wael Gomaa. The Porto midfielder had all day to play a ball into the box and without a defender within several yards of him he drilled in the ball which Brazil's new number nine Jonas was able to tap in for the samba stars. After the goal Egypt showed poor ball retention and lacked a player who could connect with forwards Emad Moteb and Mohamed Zidan. There was hope that Shikabala could be that player given his form with Zamalek but Brazil did well to neutralize his cuts in from the outside. In the 59th Egypt's disorganization would cost them again. A free kick played in well by Bruno Cesar was flicked on and then finished by Jonas once again. There was one Egyptian defender who was out of position on the set piece which allowed the Brazilian players to remain onside. The repeated breakdown is something that Bradley will have to correct if Egypt is to climb back into the elites of African football. Toward the end of the match Egypt pushed forward looking to nab a goal but the few threats that the Pharaohs did create were from long range shots which did not terribly trouble Brazil keeper Diego Alves. Egypt defender Ahmed Elmohamady elicited a diving save out of the Brazilian net minder with a long curving shot in the 61st but it was parried away. Brazil looked as though it would add another goal later on when they were able to counter Egypt after a quick turnover but comically poor finishing meant the game would finish 2-0. Brazil could be pleased with the business like result considering they were playing without many of their stars. Egypt on the other hand will need to work out the kinks on defense and have a more defined offensive strategy going forward. BM
