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Brazil unconvincing in Aussie defeat

Adriano scored in Brazil's 2-0 win over Australia today
Adriano scored in Brazil's 2-0 win over Australia today

Second-half strikes from Adriano and Fred eased holders Brazil into the knockout phase of the World Cup in Munich with a 2-0 win over Australia.

But the five-times winners were again unconvincing, frustrated for long periods by an Australian side whose impressive work rate proved more than a match for their illustrious opponents.

After a goalless opening period, Ronaldo set up Adriano for the South Americans' first just four minutes after the break.

But they had to wait until the last minutes to wrap up victory as Fred tapped into an empty net after Robinho struck a post.

Kewell flicked the roof of the net with a spectacular 30-yard volley, then Kaka brought a low save from Schwarzer at the other end.

Ronaldo's contribution ended 18 minutes from time, Robinho taking over from his Real Madrid team-mate at the same moment as Arsenal's Gilberto Silva was introduced.

Adriano was inches away from converting an overhead kick, then Kaka nodded a Ronaldinho corner onto the bar. In between Dida was at full stretch as he clawed away a Bresciano volley which looked like bringing an equaliser.

Viduka's glancing header from Bresciano's curling free-kick went close and then Viduka's lob flew over Dida but agonisingly dropped onto the roof of the net.

But, as the game entered stoppage time, Brazil wrapped up victory when Robinho's shot struck a post and rebounded to Fred, who had the easiest of tap-ins.

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