Brazil kickstarted their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 5-0 rout of Ecuador in the Maracana on Wednesday night as AC Milan star Kaka scored twice.

After a goalless draw with Colombia in their opening South American qualifier, the five-time champions left it late before turning on the style before 80,000 fans in the famous stadium in Rio de Janeiro which had not been used for an international in seven years.

Vagner Love put Brazil ahead in the 19th minute, but Brazil had to wait until the 72nd minute to extend their advantage as Barcelona ace Ronaldinho cleverly deflected a long range effort from Kaka.

With Ecuador, who lost their opening match to Venezuela reeling, it was Kaka who scored a fine individual third goal from distance.

Manchester City's Elano demonstrated his great skill as he converted after fine work by Robinho. Kaka rounded off the scoring courtesy of a bad error by visiting goalkeeper Daniel Viteri.

The result sees Brazil assume second place in the South American qualifying group behind arch-rivals Argentina who have started with two victories.

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