Kaká strikes the decisive blow

AC Milan midfielder Kaká made the difference as Brazil overcame tough resistance from Croatia to win their opening match at the FIFA World Cup in Germany. Dida saves Kaká decided an evenly-contested Group F encounter in Berlin when his curling left-footed strike from outside the area beat Croatia goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa one minute before half-time. The holders also owed a debt of gratitude to Kaká s Milan team-mate Dida, as the goalkeeper preserved Brazil s lead with a series of second-half saves, most notably from Dado Pršo and Ivan Klasnić. Carlos Alberto Parreira s side nevertheless finished strongly, with Kaká going close with a rasping drive. Timely intervention Croatia defender Igor Tudor had given Brazil serious cause for alarm when he was just unable to flick in Darijo Srna s inswinging free-kick. It was six minutes later that Kaká scored, following contributions from Emerson and Cafu, to secure his country s eighth successive victory in the World Cup finals. Grp G Korea Republic 2-1 Togo Grp G France 0-0 Switzerland