Rio de Janeiro, Sep 8 (IANS) Substitute Hulk struck a 74th-minute winner to earn Brazil 1-0 victory over South Africa in their international friendly in Sao Paulo.
Hulk, who replaced striker Leandro Damiao in the 63rd-minute, arrowed a low left foot shoot past Itumeleng Khune to save the hosts from a shock result at the Morumbi Stadium Friday, reports Xinhua.
The goal failed to satisfy local fans who booed the team throughout the second half as South Africa pressured Brazil’s defence with several goal-scoring opportunities.
“We understand the fans are entitled to be unhappy, but that sort of reaction makes us uncomfortable,” Brazil coach Mano Menezes said after the match.
“We are trying to construct something that is positive for everybody. In the end the players are the ones who suffer.”
Young attacking duo Neymar and Lucas had a day to forget for Brazil while Chelsea’s Oscar and Ramires were rarely allowed space to foray forward.
Brazil will face China in another international friendly at Recife’s Arruda Stadium Monday.
