WORLD CUP USA ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND

GROUP B at Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto

Brazil vs. Cameroon

* TIME: 1 p.m.

* TELEVISION: ESPN, Univision.

* KEY MATCHUPS: This is soccer’s version of a game between two fast-break teams. Because both will look for every opportunity to attack, the outcome will be determined by which is better in the transition from offense to defense.

Neither team traditionally emphasizes defense, although Brazil has, to the derision of its fans, made an effort in recent years to become more balanced. Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira seemed to have found the right combination in an opening 2-0 victory over Russia.

But Russia was not the offensive threat that Cameroon figures to be. Also, a third starting defender, Ricardo Rocha, was added this week to Brazil’s injury list. He has a pulled groin muscle. Two other starters, Ricardo Gomes and Mozer, were sidelined before the tournament.

Cameroon has improved defensively since the 1990 World Cup, when it fouled often to compensate for mistakes. The Lions cannot relax for a moment against Brazil’s sensational strikers, Romario and Bebeto.

* OUTLOOK: For those who insist on scoring, this is the game to watch. Cameroon’s players have been haggling with their federation and government over money, but they seemed eager after Thursday’s practice to test themselves against Brazil. “I think this is going to be a very entertaining show,” Cameroon captain Stephen Tataw said. Perhaps not for him. He is a defender.

* OUTCOME: “I give us a 40% chance against Brazil,” Cameroon goalkeeper Joseph-Antoine Bell said. The Lions will be better than that--but not by much. Brazil 4, Cameroon 2.