The Seleção were expected to record a comfortable win over one of the minnows of South American football, but Venezuela defended with composure and commitment for the entire game and were fully deserving of a point.
Brazil started on top, and Alexandre Pato had the best chances during the first half, hitting the bar just before the half hour and then forcing a good save from Venezuela ‘keeper Renny Vega.
Robinho should have put the holders in front five minutes before half time. Neymar found him on the right hand side of the box, and although his shot beat Vega, it was weak enough for Oswaldo Vizcarrondo to slide in and clear. Brazil thought he did so with his hand, but referee Raul Orosco waved play on.
Neymar had a final chance before half time, but the two sides went in level at the interval. Brazil again started the second half with plenty of possession, but struggled to create clear cut chances against a well-organised Venezuelan backline.
For all of Mano Menezes’ side’s good play, the better chances fell to Venezuela in the second half, with Rondon and Arango going close. Fred came on for Robinho, but struggled to make an impact up front.
Pato was surprisingly withdrawn to be replaced by Lucas Moura, a decision that was jeered by the Brazil fans, and Elano came on for the injured Ramires, but neither could unlock the Venezuelan defence and the game finished goalless.
At the final whistle there was delight for the Venezuela fans and players, but jeers and disappointment for Brazil, who were left ruing the missed opportunities from the few chances they were able to fashion.
