Neymar stars in Brazil win

Foxborough: Barcelona superstar Neymar scored twice as Brazil thrashed the United States 4-1 to equal the Americans' heaviest margin of defeat under manager Jurgen Klinsmann in a friendly international here Tuesday.

The USA, looking for an encouraging display as they prepare for a crucial Confederations Cup play-off against Mexico next month, were run ragged as Brazil turned on the style at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.

The score line matched the worst ever suffered by the Americans under Klinsmann, who were beaten 4-1 by Brazil in 2012 and 4-1 by Ireland in 2014. Brazil, who face a daunting opening to their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign away to Chile next month, were always in control.

Veteran striker Hulk and youngster Rafinha scored the five-time world champion's other goals. Substitute Danny Williams scored a late consolation for the Americans, lashing home a 30-yard screamer in the 90th minute.

The South Americans dominated a one-sided first half, threatening to run riot against an experimental United States formation featuring Alejandro Bedoya playing in an unfamiliar defensive midfield role.

The Brazilians swept forward confidently and did not have long to wait until their early superiority was rewarded with the first goal. Chelsea star Willian burst clear of two American defenders down the right flank and curled a looping cross beyond US keeper Brad Guzan.

As the Aston Villa goalkeeper dithered, the ball rebounded off the inside of the upright and fell kindly to Hulk, who cut back towards goal to wrong-foot defender DeAndre Yedlin to bludgeon home for 1-0.

The USA's lone attack of the first half came shortly afterwards when Yedlin, the Tottenham player currently on loan at Sunderland, surged down the flank and crossed for Jozy Altidore, whose shot on the run was blocked.