Kaka scored before the interval to give Brazil a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Croatia in their World Cup match on Tuesday. The Milan playmaker curled a brilliant left-footer in the 42nd minute into the right top corner to put the title holders ahead. Brazil are placed second in Group F with three points behind Australia who lead on goal difference while Croatia and Japan have yet to open their account and remain third and fourth respectively. Starting with a bold attacking attitude, Brazil dominated the midfield with Ronaldinho and Kaka moving down the flanks while Ronaldo and Adriano were centered on the edge of the area. Croatia played a tough zone-defense but remained dangerous on the break with Dado Prso moving behind Brazil right-back and captain Kafu. Roberto Carlos almost broke the deadlock in the 15th minute when he unleashed a long-range shot but keeper Stipe Plestikosa tipped it away.
In the 41st minute, Croatia captain Niko Kovac was forced to leave the pitch with an arm injury after he was brought down by Adriano near the halfway line. Just two minutes later, Kaka powered his way from the midfield and sent an unstoppable shot home to give Brazil the lead against the run of the play. The Europeans began the second period in a more attacking style and Rangers striker Prso was close to level the score with a powerful shot but Dida managed to palm it away. Brazil made their first substitution in the 69th minute when Robinho was sent onto the pitch for Real Madrid team mate Ronaldo. Robinho made an instant impact and combined with Ronaldinho and Adriano to make their side look more dangerous but they couldn't stretch the score line.
