Despite starting as outsiders, Brazil stung Argentina with a fourth-minute goal from Julio Baptista (in picture).
With the temperature at kickoff time around 32 Celsius and the tropical sun still burning, a cagey opening had been expected but instead Brazil snatched a quick lead.
A long crossfield ball by Elano found Julio Baptista on the left and, as Ayala held off, the player known as 'the Beast' advanced menacingly and unleashed a shot into the top right hand corner.
Riquelme rifled a shot against the post five minutes later and forced a brilliant save from Brazil goalkeeper Doni.
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