Bloemfontein - Though they are popular the world over, Brazil were taken aback by the enthusiastic reaction of South African supporters Friday at their first training ahead of the Confederations Cup as a rumoured 6,000 locals sang and danced their way through the Selecao's practice.

The display at the Seisa Ramabodu Stadium in the blighted township area of Rocklands, outside Bloemfontein, was commented on warmly by a handful of players the next day.

"Brazil is followed everywhere we go," said Fiorentina midfielder Felipe Melo at the team's luxury hotel on the outskirts of the city. "But this reaction was something special. It was truly a joy to bring joy to these people."

Unfortunately their gruelling trip to Blomefontein after a successful World Cup qualifying match in mid-week, a 2-1 win over Paraguay, meant that the practice was light and none of the Brazilian magic with a ball was on display.

It didn't seem to affect the reaction of the partying crowd, mostly schoolchildren chanting for their typically far-away idols, Kaka and Robinho.

"I was very impressed by the kindness and happiness of the people that came to greet us, and I hope to pay them back on the pitch" said the Manchester City striker, who promised the fans a special dance should he score in their first Group B encounter against Egypt on Monday.

From a country with a similar racial and socioeconomic makeup, the Brazilians seemed especially touched by the situation.

"We are all aware that most of these people that came to cheer for us won't be able to afford to get into the matches themselves," said Inter Milan's Maicon. "Maybe that's why we all appreciated the beautiful party they gave us so much."

Robinho drew the connection even more, saying: "We also come from a country that has many people of African descent, and it seems similar feelings, so we recognized a humanity and passion that's very similar to Brazil."

After the contest against Egypt, the South American champions leave Bloemfontein for Pretoria where they will look to defend their 2005 Confederations Cup trophy against the United States and Italy. (dpa)