Brazil fought aggressively against Belgium but failed to score in the first half of a group match of the Olympic soccer tournament on Thursday.

The two teams clashed in the midfield two minutes into the game, with Brazilian midfielders Hernanes and Anderson, and Belgian forward Kevin Mirallas each receiving a caution.

In the 25th minute, Belgium defender Vincent Kompany, who plays for German club Hamburger SV, was yellow-carded when covering AC Milan's talented 19-year-old striker Alexandre Pato.

Belgium received another yellow card in the first half when defender Sebastien Pocognoli tackled down Brazilian defender Rafinha in the 42nd minute.

One minute later, playmaker Diego had sight of goal before Belgian defenders slammed the ball off the goal line.

(Xinhua News Agency August 7, 2008)