Brazil and Germany had a goalless draw in their Olympic opener in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, on Wednesday.

Brazil's lineup featured two-time World Player of the Year Marta, and Germany boasted veteran forward Birgit Prinz.

Brazil dominated the first few minutes and in the 12th minute striker Christiane received a perfect cross from Marta on the left, but only ballooned the ball over the crossbar.

Germany started to find form and fight back after 20 minutes into the match, with a forward Sandra Smisek's header hitting the top of net in the 23rd minute, much to the relief of the Brazilian goalie Andreia.

Germany's best moment in the first half came in the 41st minute, when Prinz's shot slipped the far post.

The two sides reinforced attack in the second half and both created a number of threatening shots.

In the 61st minute, Smisek's left-footed shot mishit the empty goal. Only a minute later, the Brazilians counter-attacked speedily with Christiane's breath-taking shot was cleared by German goalkeeper Nadine Angere. A follow-up header by Brazilian defender Renata Costa hit the right post.

Brazil squandered more golden chances as they fought all out in front of the German goal.

Four minutes before the injury time, Marta penetrated Germany's defense solely but her shot was saved by Angere again.

Brazil lost to Germany 2-0 in last year's FIFA World Cup in China and both teams are favorites to win the Olympic champions.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2008)