Brazil scrambles to 0-0 draw in Colombia

BOGOTA: Brazil struggled to an uninspiring goalless draw away to Colombia in its opening match of the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign on Sunday.

The only team to have played at all 18 World Cups, Brazil is likely to be happier with the point, achieved at 2,600 meters above sea level on a slippery pitch, than its lackluster performance.

Despite making wholesale changes from its Copa America squad and fielding an inexperienced team, Colombia had most of the pressure and Brazil became less adventurous as the game went on

"Considering that we were playing away from home, at high altitude, on a heavy pitch, it was a reasonable start to the qualifiers," Brazil coach Dunga told Brazilian television.

"The first half was evenly balanced and we had a few chances. In the second half, we lacked speed and strength and the players felt tired."

"If Colombia play like they did today against Brazil, they will qualify," Dunga added.

Brazil forward Ronaldinho was also satisfied.

"With the pitch and the altitude, it was a good point because I don't think many other teams will come here and get a point," he said.

The match kicked off 45 minutes late after a torrential downpour left puddles on the pitch but the water drained away quickly.

Backed by a passionate crowd at the El Campin stadium, Colombia took the game to Brazil and Radamel Falcao Garcia was close after a well-worked move from a free kick in the third minute.

So uncomfortable

Colombia striker Wason Renteria twice forced Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar to make difficult saves from headers and the visitors were so uncomfortable that Julio Cesar was booked for time-wasting in the 44th minute.

Brazil's best first-half effort came when Ronaldinho had a shot from a narrow angle turned around the post by Agustin Julio.

Colombia continued to press forward after halftime and Julio Cesar was forced to parry a long-range shot from substitute Freddy Grisales.

Aldo Leao Ramirez also tested the goalkeeper with a low shot but Colombia were unable to find their way past a packed Brazil defense.

Midfielder Mineiro had Brazil's only second-half scoring chance when his 25-meter drive was turned away by Julio.

Agencies

(China Daily 10/16/2007 page23)