Showing little of the great pace and technical savvy that saw them score 16 goals and conceding none in their four African qualifying games against Namibia and South Africa, the Flamingoes were a shadow of themselves at the King Abdullah II International Stadium. A brilliant chip by the South Americans' lively No10, Micaelly in the 42nd minute proved the difference between the teams.
Brazil were the more cohesive and inventive side and, initially at least, simply lacked a cutting edge to complement their fine approach play. Indeed, despite their early dominance, the South Americans had their keeper to thank for keeping them on level terms when the game's first big chances were created.
Nigeria's Flamingoes failed to find the back of the Brazilian net with Arit Itu heading a free kick from the left over the bar and captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Folashade Ijamilusi both missing good chances. Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe were both foiled within seconds by the brilliant Kemmeli, in goal for Brazil.
Nonetheless, Brazil remained the better side and it was no more than they deserved when Micaelly gave them the lead. Nigeria's goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie initially looked to have averted danger when, with Ana Votira racing through, she charged from her goal to clear at the striker's feet but her clearance landed straight at the feet of Brazil's No10 and even with two covering defenders in her way, Micaelly had the skill and composure required to measure an inch-perfect chip over their heads and into the Nigerian net.
Sadly, there was nothing in a disappointing second half to match that moment of magic, with tough tackling more prevalent than skill or invention. Brazil will simply be happy to have emerged with a win that leaves them well placed in a section that also includes England and North Korea.
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