Little style as Brazil progress to under-20 World Cup final

 ALAN Kardec's strike saw Brazil edge past Costa Rica to set up a under-20 World Cup final date with Ghana.

But forget samba football, this was a dull affair with both side's nervously cancelling each other out in a game of few clear-cut chances in Cairo.

Even Brazil's winner - which arrived in the 67th minute - appeared a little lucky.

Alex Teixera saw a tame effort squirm across the area to team-mate Kardec, who showed quick reactions to unleash a powerful volley from the tightest of angles.

Brazil had dominated possession with Costa Rico's Esteban Alvarado the busy of the keepers.

But the Los Ticos also had their chances and coach Ronald Gonzalez thought they'd taken the lead following a Daniel Guzman free-kick, which Brazilian keeper Rafael brilliantly tipped over the bar.

Brazil's Paulo Henrique had a chance to break the deadlock after the interval but fired his effort straight at Alvarado when well-placed.

Costa Rico also rallied with both Guzman and Daniel Varela making a nuisance of themselves while Spanish referee Alberto Undiano slowed the pace of the game with ten bookings.