Brazil rich with stars

JOHANNESBURG: Powerhouse Brazil go into the Confederations Cup without Ronaldinho and Ronaldo but in Kaka and Robinho they have plenty of ammunition to defend their title.

Coach Dunga decided to drop AC Milan's out-of-form Ronaldinho while Ronaldo, despite a promising comeback from injury with Corinthians, has yet to prove he can still make an impact at the highest level. AC Milan's Thiago Silva and former Inter Milan star Adriano also missed out on places, while Manchester United midfielder Anderson and Chelsea center-back Alex are out injured.

"We have to use common sense to do the best for Brazil. Ronaldinho is going through a difficult period. He needs to play more," said Dunga of a team that beat Argentina 4-1 in a pulsating Confederations Cup final four years ago.