Portugal (1) v (2) Brazil
By George ThomsonTWO of the tournaments' most fancied teams met at Fed Square for an eagerly awaited match, with Brazil edging out ancient rivals Portugal 2-1.
A large crowd had come to the main stadium expecting to see a feast of flashy skills from some of the best players on show in Melbourne. But they hadn't reckoned for how much this fixture means to players from these two great footballing nations.
They soon realised though as Portugal's Litos was ordered off the field within 30 seconds for a blood infringement.
Both sides appeared wary of each others' strong points, with the always impressive Luis for Portugal sacrificing his own attacking instincts to stay close to Brazil's deadly Carlos Magno. Brazil were unable to assert their patient passing game, Portugal's incessant harrying throwing them out of its rhythm.
Eventually Gil broke the deadlock, getting Portugal off the mark with a powerful low drive across the goal. It was a lead they held at the break.
Brazil equalised at the beginning of the second half, Eduardo Silva slotting home a cool finish.
What followed was five minutes of some of the most intense football the tournament has seen so far, with both teams playing a lightning quick game of cat and mouse. Both keepers excelled, notably Portugal's charismatic Mendes, who used every inch of his area in restricting Brazil's scoring opportunities.
Something had to give, and in the end a yard of space was given to Brazil's Eduardo Silva, who fired home from range to seal the game.
Portugal's Luis almost sent Silva over the side wall to let Brazil know they weren't happy about it, but the South Americans had done enough.
Photos: Photoworx
