Brazil began their year in sublime form as
they crushed Hong Kong 7-1 in a friendly.
The world champions put on a breath-taking display on Wednesday to
thrill a festive crowd celebrating the first day of the Chinese New Year
at the Hong Kong Stadium.
Brazil hardly missed top striker Ronaldo, not released by Real Madrid
for this warm-up game for next month's World Cup qualifier against Peru,
against a side ranked 134th in the world.
Young striker Robinho and midfielder Ricardo Oliveira scored two goals
each, and Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos were also on target, the latter
with a stunning 25-metre shot. Substitute Alex converted a late penalty.
Brazil led 3-0 at halftime and despite the early substitutions of
skipper Cafu, Ronaldinho, the 2004 World Footballer of the Year, and
Roberto Carlos, they kept up the pressure on the hapless home defence.
Hong Kong's consolation goal came four minutes from time when substitute
Lee Sze-ming slotted home following a goal-mouth scramble. |
