Robinho: Kaka the key

Kaka is still crucial to Brazil's hopes of a sixth World Cup crown, according to team-mate Robinho.

The Manchester City forward, who is on loan to Brazilian club Santos, outshone the Real Madrid star in the Selecao's opening Group G victory over North Korea on Tuesday, even when dropping back into Kaka's role behind the strikers.

Kaka is still trying to recover full fitness following a season disrupted by groin and thigh problems and was replaced by Nilmar in the 78th minute against the Koreans.

But Robinho has no doubt that he remains an important figure for Brazil and told globoesporte.com: "When Kaka plays well he can decide any game. He is very important to us.

"I realise that we can all improve in the coming games. It was only the first one and what happened was fairly normal.

"The Selecao has excellent players and if we have to replace anyone we are reassured by the quality we have."