Fred disputes dive claims

Brazil striker Fred has dismissed claims that he dived to earn his side a penalty during their 3-1 win over Croatia at the World Cup.

The forward went to ground when he tussled with Dejan Lovren before Neymar scored from the spot to put the hosts 2-1 up.

Despite suggestions that Fred cheated to gain the penalty, he insists that he was legitimately brought down by Lovren.

"It was a clear penalty. There isn't more or less a penalty," he told CBF TV. "I controlled the ball with my right foot and I was turning left when I was bumped into the shoulder, I couldn't reach the ball, lost balance and fell. I am not the kind of player that falls down."

Brazil continue their World Cup campaign on Tuesday, when they play Mexico in Fortaleza.