Brazil had to come from a goal
behind to draw 1-1 with Croatia in Split in a frendly international
largely dominated by the world champions.
The home side's early hard work paid off in the 32nd minute when CSKA
Moscow forward Ivica Olic hit the post and Niko Kranjcar slotted in the
rebound.
Brazil hit back 10 minutes later when Ricardinho sent an 18-meter free
kick into the top right-hand corner of the net.
The South Americans went close to taking the lead in the 69th minute
when Adriano struck the post.
Adriano also went wide with a header, as did Ronaldo with a shot from
the edge of the box.
Both countries fielded their strongest possible teams as they warmed up
for World Cup qualifiers in September.
Brazil were only without Ronaldinho and Roque Junior, who are suspended
for the tie with Chile on September 4.
Ronaldo returned to the national team after missing two World Cup
qualifiers and the Confederations Cup, but he failed to make any real
impact on the game.
Coach Alberto Parreira tried out a three-pronged attack in the second
half with Real Madrid's Robinho coming on to join Ronaldo and Inter
Milan's Adriano.
Croatia, who missed injured Rangers striker Dado Prso, top European Zone
Group Eight with 16 points.
They are one point ahead of Sweden and six ahead of Hungary. Croatia go
to Iceland for their next qualifier on September 3 before meeting Malta
four days later.
