Brazil battled back from a one-goal deficit to claim maximum points from their second match of the Olympics against Belarus this afternoon.
The Brazilians controlled large parts of the opening exchanges, but it was Belarus who took the lead in the eighth minute. Renan Bardini Bressan leapt highest in the penalty area and planted his header into the net.
However, Brazil were back on level terms seven minutes later. Neymar crossed for striker partner Alexandre Pato, who guided his headed effort into the goal from close range.
Neymar turned goalscorer after the restart to put his side in front. Having been fouled by Stanislav Dragun 30 yards from goal, the Santos youngster got to his feet and fired the resultant free-kick into the top corner of the net with 68 minutes gone.
Chelsea's new signing Oscar also produced a carbon copy goal in the 89th minute, but goalkeeper Aleksandr Gutor got across to tip his effort over the bar.
Oscar did manage to get a goal in stoppage when Neymar flicked the ball into his path and the midfielder curled the ball into the net from 16 yards out.
The three points have seen Brazil qualify for the quarter-finals, while Belarus must avoid defeat against Egypt to have any chance of progressing.
Liam Apicella
