SALVADOR, (Reuters) – Goals from Dante, Neymar and a brace from Fred gave Brazil a well-deserved 4-2 victory over Italy yesterday as the improving hosts made it three wins from three in the Confederations Cup.
With Neymar in sparkling form and Fred always dangerous in front of goal, Brazil were the better team for most of a Group A match they never looked like losing.
Both were sides already through to the semi-finals of the World Cup warm-up so Italy coach Cesare Prandelli freshened things up with five changes from the team that started against Japan in Recife three days ago.
But even though home side Brazil only needed a point to qualify in first place, they were the hungrier side from the off.
Brazil almost took the lead in the first minute when Hulk forced Gianluigi Buffon to get down smartly to turn his shot round the post.
