Neymar's penalty settles first ever match between Brazil and Uruguay outside South America
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Neymar netted a controversial penalty to secure Brazil a hard-fought win against Uruguay in a friendly that was anything but on a dank night in London.
Arsenal's Emirates Stadium played host to the 76th meeting of these South American adversaries as they continued their build-up to next summer's Copa America.
Brazil are favourites to lift the trophy on home turf and Tite's men continued their impressive preparations with a narrow 1-0 victory through Neymar's late penalty.
This was a friendly in name only as referee Craig Pawson handed out eight bookings on a night when Uruguay's players were furious with the decision to give the Selecao a spot-kick after Diego Laxalt was adjudged to have fouled Manchester City's Danilo.
It looked harsh and added to a feisty occasion in which Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker had to be alert between the sticks for Brazil. PA
MATCH PREVIEW
What time does it start?
Brazil vs Uruguay kicks off at 8pm.
Where can I watch it?
The match will be shown live on ITV 4 from 7:40pm. Viewers can also watch the match online via the ITV Hub.
Player to watch…
Neymar: The Brazil captain stated that he is willing to act as a mentor to Everton forward Richarlison but the Paris Saint-Germain forward also needs to address his own form, having not scored from open play for his country since their last-16 tie with Mexico in the World Cup in Russia. While his teammates this evening will have less international experience than usual, Neymar’s role will be of great importance if Brazil are to emerge victorious.
Form guide…
Brazil: WLWWWW
Uruguay: WWLWLL
Odds…
Brazil to win: 13/25
Uruguay to win: 24/5
Draw: 33/10
Prediction...
Brazil 2-1 Uruguay
90 mins: NO.
A bad free-kick from Suarez sees Brazil attempt to counter, but they also fail.
Not long to go for Brazil to hold on to victory here.
90+2 mins: Corner Brazil.
I assume they won't be swinging this one in to the mixer.
FULL TIME: Brazil 1-0 Uruguay
Tonight's 'friendly' has certainly had a bit of bite to it but Neymar's penalty is what decides the game between the two South American sides in their first ever clash on European soil.
The Emirates was host to some attacking flair and quality but certainly a lot of foul play, niggling tackles and plenty of argy bargy.
English referee Craig Pawson will be somewhat relieved, probably expecting an easy ride given the 'friendly' nature of the game.
Uruguay head to Paris now to take on the World Champions France who were also defeated tonight.
Meanwhile, tonight's victors Brazil continue their world tour, moving on to Stadium MK next where they face Cameroon.
Thank you for joining us here at the Independent and we hope you enjoyed tonight's games.
Be sure to follow us on twitter at @IndyFootball where we'll keep you updated on the rest of the International football this week as well as the return to club football and beyond.
Have a fantastic weekend, folks.
Before I say goodbye...
Image of the evening surely?
Poor Hugo.
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