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The center-back of the Croatian national team, Robert Kovac, admitted to feeling a bit confused yesterday because he had no trouble stopping the once titled one of the best strikers on the planet, Brazil's Ronaldo.
The Brazilian national team defending their title earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory, but 29-year-old Ronaldo was a non-factor on the field and was substituted in the 69th minute.
"I don't know what happened to him," said R. Kovac. "He didn't run and simply stood in front of us. Ronaldo must have been tired because he hardly touched the ball at all. It was very easy to defend against him in yesterday's match. I've played against him before and it was very difficult then. I don't know what could have happened to the striker..."
A different opinion was held by another Croatian national team defender, Josip Simunic, who said that Ronaldo will show what he's really capable of.
"Ronaldo is the most dangerous player in the world," said J. Simunic. "I don't know what others are saying, but I'm 100% sure that he will score four or five goals in the World Cup. Just wait and see."
Croatian national team coach, Carlos Alberto Perreira, defended Ronaldo and the only goal scorer for the Croats, Kaka.
"Ronaldo hasn't played in the last two months, excluding two friendly matches, so it's not surprising that he felt heavy on the field," said C. A. Perreira. "But it was very hot and I'm sure his game will improve."
The coach also admitted that Ronaldo will definitely start in the starting lineup in the second World Cup match against Australia, taking place on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Kaka added: "Ronaldo said he hasn't reached his best physical condition yet, so let's wait for his game to improve and see the real Ronaldo. However, I agree, of course, that it would be great if he moved more on the field."
