Brazil defeat Peru 1-0

Goiania:

Kaka hit a late goal to give Brazil a 1-0 win over Peru in Goiania on Sunday. The world champions remain second in the 10-nation South American World Cup qualifying group with 23 points from 12 games, two behind leaders Argentina, who won 2-1 in Bolivia on Saturday. Peru are ninth with 13. Brazil hosted Peru at the Serra Dourada Stadium in Goiania on Sunday looking to keep track with leaders Argentina in the South American qualifying group for the 2006 World Cup. Focus on Ronaldo Much of the talk in the build-up to the game had centred on Ronaldo, and in particular his current form - or rather, his lack of it. And in a disappointing first half the striker did little to allay those concerns, first kicking into fresh air after Cafu had crossed from the right, and then, shortly after, failing to beat keeper Oscar Ibanez when he was put through by Roberto Carlos. Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira had opted to start with Juninho Pernambucano instead of the in-form Robinho. But the young Santos player was sent on after halftime, perhaps in response to the fact that most of the 50,000 fans inside the stadium had been chanting his name throughout the goalless opening period. A Brazilian goal wasn't long in coming. Ironically, though, Robinho played little part a€" and instead it was Ronaldo who provided the crucial through-ball to Kaka. The Milan midfielder chipping the ball past the onrushing Oscar Ibanez and inside the post. Brazil behind Argentina 1-0 the final score - but despite the win, Brazil remain behind Argentina in the 10-team qualifying group. Argentina have 25 points and Brazil 23, while Peru are ninth with 13 points. The Peruvians held Brazil to a 1-1 draw in their first qualifier last November in Lima. The top four South American teams qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany, while the fifth-placed team plays the Oceania winner for the final spot. (AP)