World Cup brings out authentic play

TIANJIN : Germany is ruthless and efficient, Brazil is flamboyant and Australia battling.

Sound familiar? At the women's World Cup, national stereotypes transcend gender.

So it was no surprise when England crashed out in the quarterfinals, or when Brazilian flair subdued an against-the-odds assault by brave Australia.

Brazil's Cristiane (11), in whom shades of Ronaldinho can be seen, and Australia's Dianne Alagich (4) fight for the ball during their quarter-final soccer match at the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup in Tianjin September 23, 2007.  [Reuters]