WORLD CUP ’90 : Brazil Beats Sweden, 2-1; Careca Stars

Striker Careca scored once in each half as Brazil beat Sweden, 2-1, Sunday night an opening-round match at the World Cup.

Brazil, a three-time World Cup champion seeking its first title since 1970, outplayed Sweden for long periods of both halves.

Careca opened the scoring in the 41st minute, circling around goalkeeper Thomas Ravelli after a long lead pass from Branco.

He struck again in the 62nd minute, steering in a precise pass from Muller.

Tommy Brolin scored for Sweden in the 79th minute, turning in the penalty area to shoot past goalie Claudio Taffarel.

But Careca and Muller had too much speed for the Swedish defense, which they beat whenever they managed to break away--and that proved the difference. Sweden created a series of chances late in the game, but could not convert any of them.

Brazil and Sweden are in Group C along with Scotland and Costa Rica, who’ll meet Monday in Genoa.

Brazil dominated possession in the first half, but could not score until four minutes remained.