Brazil struggled to an uninspiring goalless draw away to Colombia in their opening match of the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign on Sunday.
Brazil stars Kaka, Ronaldinho and Robinho were eclipsed by Colombia's Radamel Falcao Garcia, Aquivaldo Mosquera and Carlos Alberto Sanchez.
While Colombia dominated the pitch, the Brazilians at times seemed listless, a possible consequence of Bogota's 2,600m altitude and a wet pitch.
The match didn't disappoint in drama or excitement despite the scoreline. Colombia coach Jorge Luis Pinto was expelled from El Campin stadium 15 minutes into the game for protesting a referee's decision not to award a penalty to Wason Renteria.
The match was delayed for 45 minutes due to heavy rain, which drenched the pitch.
Colombia are eager to overturn an awful recent record in the World Cup and reach South Africa in 2010 after failing to qualify for the past two World Cups.
"Considering that we were playing away from home, at high altitude, on a heavy pitch, it was a reasonable start to the qualifiers," Brazil coach Dunga told Brazilian television.
"The first half was evenly balanced and we had a few chances. In the second half, we lacked speed and strength and the players felt tired," he said.
"If Colombia play like they did today against Brazil, they will qualify," Dunga said.
Brazil forward Ronaldinho was also satisfied.
"With the pitch and the altitude, it was a good point because I don't think many other teams will come here and get a point," he said.
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