Brazil [Images] coach Carlos Alberto Parreira paid tribute to Croatia's stubborn performance as the holders got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start.

"The challenge is not only the first game," Parreira said after Brazil's 1-0 win in their opening Group F match at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Tuesday.

"In addition to the fact that the team hasn't played a lot together, we faced an adversary that was good...and marking very well, with energy.

"I think the game was balanced, we had more shots on goal but we had a certain difficulty imposing our own rhythm," he said after Brazil had 13 shots to Croatia's nine.

Man of the Match Kaka [Images], who scored the only goal just before halftime with a delightful curling shot, said: "We were expecting this, [they are] a tough team. We suffered a bit. But I started well, getting a goal. I think it was an important victory."

Brazil captain Cafu added: "Without any doubt, the important thing is start on the right foot.

"I told the team before the game we had to go up seven steps, we went up one and now we have six to go," he said referring to the matches a team has to play to win the Cup. "In each game we will try to improve."

A delighted Parreira agreed with his right back, telling reporters: "The result was exceptional, excellent. The performance could be better but it will improve in the next game. For us today it was so important to start with a win."

Brazil's next match is on Sunday against Australia, who beat Japan [Images] 3-1 in their opening game in the group.