Kaka blasts Brazil into 1-0 lead over Croatia

BERLIN, June 13 (Reuters) Brazil's Kaka struck a scintillating goal just before halftime to grab a 1-0 advantage for the world champions over dogged Croatia today in their World Cup Group F opener.

After a frustrating 43 minutes, Kaka hit his 14th international goal, picking the ball up just outside the Croatia area and curling it perfectly into the top left corner at Berlin's Olympiastadion.

Roberto Carlos had unleashed a fierce shot from outside the penalty box in the 15th minute which Stipe Pletikosa tipped over the bar. Moments later, Ronaldinho sent a low, long-range shot just wide of the left-hand post.

Croatia mainly confined themselves to trying to catch Brazil on the break. Niko Kranjcar shot wide after Marko Babic broke from midfield with a strong run in the 23rd minute.

REUTERS DH RAI0025