2002 World Cup qualifier - Brazil 3 Argentina 1

Brazil stormed back to form in Rio to beat Argentina 3-1 in a crucial 2002 World Cup qualifier.

The win sees Brazil coach Wanderley Luxemburgo reach a significant point in the battle against his critics who have been calling for him to be sacked.

Luxemburgo's team handed Argentina their first defeat in six qualification matches so far but the Argentines remain top of the group with Brazil now moving into second pace on eleven points - four points off the lead..

Two goals from midfielder Marcio Vampeta gave Brazil the much needed win but a sixth minute goal from Alex set the home team up for a fine performance.

Luxemburgo dumped six players after last week's 2-1 defeat in Asuncion against Paraguay and Alex was one of those drafted in to meet Brazil's greatest challenge for some time.

The Palmeiras star is set to join Parma AC next year and he was completely free at the far post to head in an Antonio Carlos cross to give Brazil the lead.

Hernan Crespo came close to getting an equaliser with a header across goal from a corner but Brazil were dominating the match after the early boost of a goal.

They sealed an excellent first half display with a goal in injury time.

Ronaldinho was given the ball deep in his own half by Vampeta who collected a return ball and swept a cross field pass to Alex to whip in a blazing shot that Roberto Bonano in the Argentine goal could only turn into the path of Vampeta who struck the ball into the net.

Substitute Matias Almeyda had time to cash in on Brazil's relaxed mood as the first half time played out with a low shot past Dida to put his team back into the match.

Brazil responded in the 51st minute as Ronaldinho set up Vampeta with a through pass to drive the ball into goal.

Substitute Marques forced a save which saw the ball hit the post from Bonano late in the game as Brazil controlled the match.

Luxemburgo still has a long way to go to win over the Brazil football public but heavy wins against their traditional bitter rivals is a good way to start. He can afford no further slip ups though as Brazil try to regain their form.