Ronaldo goal gives Brazil 1-0 win against Russia

Striker Ronaldo's fortuitous first-half goal was enough to secure world champions Brazil a 1-0 victory over Russia in a World Cup warm-up friendly on Wednesday.

A shot from Brazil captain Roberto Carlos struck his Real Madrid team mate and surprised goalkeeper Igor Akinfeyev, who protested the ball had been diverted in by Ronaldo's arm after 15 minutes.

Brazil dominated the remainder of the half in bitterly cold conditions but were kept out by Akinfeyev.

The hosts, who were thrashed 5-1 by Brazil in their last meeting in 1998, almost levelled on the stroke of halftime when a powerful shot from Alexander Kerzhakov struck the post.

Russia, who failed to qualify for this year's World Cup finals and are led by caretaker coach Alexander Borodyuk, pinned Brazil back after the break but were let down by poor finishing.

Brazil were without injured World Player of the Year Ronaldinho, who is recovering from an ankle injury.

The world champions open the defence of their trophy against Croatia on June 13. They also play Australia and Japan in Group F.