Brazil struggled at times on Sunday evening in Munich. But when the final whistle sounded, Australia had been defeated 2-0 despite the Brazilians at times looking nothing like the defending World Cup champions. The South American powerhouse advances to the round of 16 for the tenth consecutive time, not having been eliminated in the group stage since 1966.

Adriano provided the first for Brazil shortly after half on a beautiful drive just inside the post, launching him and his team mates into the "rocking the baby" celebration dedicated to Adriano's son who was born in Brazil on Friday. Fred delivered the second in the 89th minute just one minute after he came into the game to replace Adriano.

Brazilian midfielder Ze Roberto was named Man of the Match.

Early in the match, all eyes were on Ronaldo following his dismal performance against Croatia last week. Once again, the Brazilian attack proved lackluster but Ronaldo managed a number of shots and set up Adriano's goal. Still, most of his shots were from distance and he showed little energy in one-on-one situations. He whiffed completely on one shot before being subbed out 20 minutes before time.

"It was of course a very important victory for all of us," said goal scorer Fred. "We really needed it to advance and I am very happy that I was able to score. We've qualified for the next round so now we'll be able to play more openly."

Fred's goal came as the final seconds of the match were ticking off the clock following a powerful drive by Robinho which came off the post right to Fred's feet. He tapped in for the final margin. It was Brazil's ninth consecutive victory at the World Cup finals.

Brazil is now in prime position to win Group F with only luckless Japan left to face before the next round. Both Australia and Croatia can likewise still advance, with a tie likely being good enough for the Socceroos.

And judging from their performance against Brazil, the Australians would be a good bet to get past Croatia. Far from playing dead, the team from Down Under never gave up and often dominated play for long stretches, created a handful of excellent chances, and even had more shots on goal than the Brazilians in the first half.

"It's very disappointing not to get something out of the game, but Brazil are Brazil and we gave them a good game," Australia captain Mark Viduka told Australian television. "We played well and on another day it could have been different for us."

Substitute Harry Kewell had perhaps the best chance in the 56th minute just a minute after he came on after keeper Dida misplayed the ball. His shot sailed harmlessly over the crossbar. Both Kewell and fellow substitute Marco Bresciano had breakaways in the second half during a period of domination by Australia, but the tight Brazilian defense was able to snuff them out.

Bresciano tested Dido again with 10 minutes remaining forcing an acrobatic one-handed save.

Robinho just missed scoring in the 77th minute on a powerful swinging volley catching Australia's defense more focused on pushing forward than protecting keeper Mark Schwarzer's goal.