Yugoslavia's losing return

Yugoslavia lost 2-0 to the world champions Brazil in Ponte Alegre yesterday in their first match since they were thrown out of international football two years ago.

Yugoslavia, who can now call only on players from the republics of Serbia and Montenegro, appeared to be in no fit state for a match after landing at 2.30am on the morning of the game after a marathon trans-atlantic journey.

In searing heat Brazil, fielding nine of their World Cup squad, took the lead through a Viola header in the 26th minute. After 65 minutes Branco added a second with a 30-yard, left-foot free-kick which bounced in off the crossbar.