Yesterday

Netherlands 2 - 1 Slovakia
Brazil 3-0 Chile

Today

Paraguay vs Japan 16:00 SS3
Spain vs Portugal 20:30 SS3

JOHANNESBURG - Brazil’s relentless march to the latter stages of this World Cup continued with an effortless victory 3-0 over Chile at Ellis Park in Johannesburg last evening.

A team combining a potent mix of physique, power and mouthwatering ability were hugely assured in a one-side dismissal of their fellow South Americans to line up a quarter-final with Netherlands on Friday.

The boys in the famous yellow and blue were in control from virtually the first whistle and goals by Juan, Luis Fabiano and Robinho confirmed their status as tournament favourites.

It has been no easy run for Brazil - they emerged from a ‘Group of Death’ unscathed and with reputations enhanced, and on this evidence the Dutch will need to summon up the spirits of past greats if they are to challenge Dunga’s men.

Kaka remains Brazil’s talisman and the Real Madrid midfielder was impressive on his return from suspension - though he managed to pick up his third booking of the tournament after English referee Howard Webb was unimpressed with his trip on a Chile player.

After Juan had opened the scoring, punishing Chile for their failure to deal with Brazil’s aerial threat at a corner from Maicon, Kaka was heavily involved in the second goal.

Agencies