Brazil have opened up their World Cup finals campaign with a comfertable 3-1 win over Croatia in Sao Paulo.
Two goals from starlet Neymar and Oscar sealed a win, following a first have own goal from Marcelo.
Croatia started the game off well, thawting Brazil’s attacks, and stopping Neymar in the process.
Ivica Olic headed wide early on, as Brazil were being frustrated in Sao Paulo in the group A clash.
But Brazil were stunned when Marcelo diverted the ball into his own goal after 11 minutes.
The host nation then looked to hit back, with Neymar being kept out superbly by Pletikosa, from a dipping effort, in a game in which would be fuelled by controversy.
But after half an hour, Brazil were level, through Neymar of course.
Neymar jinked his way past his man after collecting a pass from Neymar, before firing into the bottom corner past the desparing dive of the keeper.
Croatia hung on for half time, and came out for the second half well, with Jelavic seeing his shot well saved by Cesar.
Oscar then had an effort whisk just wide of the post after 55 minutes.
Cesar was then called into action again, after Ivica Olic saw his shot easily saved on the hour mark.
Up the other end, Brazil found their second, after a controversial penalty.
Oscar was brought down, before Neymar scuffed his penalty, which was palmed into the corner by keeper Pletikosa.
Up the other end, Modric and Rakitic saw their efforts palmed away by Cesar.
Brazil had their third with ten to play, following a mazy run by Oscar, who toe poked home.
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1