Brazilian playmaker Kaka has highlighted Argentina and Spain as the sides most likely to threaten Brazil's bid to claim a second successive world crown.

The Milan star, speaking ahead of his side's second round tie with Ghana on Tuesday, believes both sides are capable of marrying efficiency and creativity to successful effect.

Brazil have often valued attacking flamboyance above all else in tournaments past but Kaka insists Carlos Alberto Parreira's team are a little more savvy this time around.

"I think we are seeing good matches but the beautiful game is being put aside," Kaka told Sky Sports News.

"Everybody is looking for efficiency, nobody wants to play too nice and then go back home."

With Argentina having already secured their quarter final passage with victory over Mexico, Kaka expects Spain to join them on Tuesday evening, despite the small matter of France standing between Luis Aragones's side and a place in the last eight.

"From the matches I've seen, Argentina's team is playing well together and Spain are also doing well," added Kaka.

"But I would also include Brazil in that group as well."