Brazil 5 Panama 0

Brazil struggled for an hour to make their possession convert into goals but they finally managed to strike five times against lowly Panama.

The Panamanians accepted a late offer three weeks ago to play Luiz Felipe Scolari's team as they prepare for a vital 2002 World Cup qualifier next Wednesday aganst Paraguay.

But Brazil did well to keep going and and try to overcome recent poor form which has damaged their hopes of reaching the 2002 World Cup finals.

Returning veteran Leonardo hit the crossbar with a rasping drive in only the first minute as Brazil mounted early pressure against an eight-man defence at times for the visitors.

Brazil were awarded a 60th minute penalty when Torres brought down Tinga in the penalty area, and Edilson lashed in his shot to start the expected goal glut from Brazil.

Roberto Carlos crossed from the left in the 61st minute for Alex to hit in a half volley

Denilson hit the bar in the 80th minute with Euller poking in the rebound and Juninho converted a penalty seven minutes later with Roberto Carlos completing the scoring with a booming free kick.

The goals may have come late against an ordinary team but they were needed to boost Brazilian confidence ahead of a meeting with the Paraguayan defence next week which promises to be a severe test.

The Paraguay game is one of just four matches left for Brazil to qualify for the Japan and Korea finals of the World Cup.