Maicon magic puts Samba Boys in the groove

BRAZIL began their quest for a sixth world crown with victory over North Korea at Ellis Park last night but it was far from a vintage display from Dunga’s men against hard-working opposition.

The Koreans, ranked 85th in the world, kept Brazil at bay for 55 minutes until Maicon’s cross-cum-shot swerved in at the near post and the three points were assured by a rare moment of magic as Robinho laid a second goal on a plate for former Manchester City team-mate Elano, although Ji Yun-nam gave them a late scare by halving the deficit.

Afterwards Maicon insisted he had meant to score with his swerving effort which broke the deadlock.