Beijing - Lionel Messi had a penalty saved as Brazil continued their defensive rehabilitation under returning coach Dunga with a morale-boosting 2-0 win over old adversaries Argentina in a feisty friendly on Saturday.
Atletico Mineiro striker Diego Tardelli scored once in each half, his first goals for Brazil, as former skipper Dunga made it three wins and clean sheets since returning to the role following the World Cup in July.
The 29-year-old forward volleyed the opener in the 28th minute after a defensive lapse by Federico Fernandez and Pablo Zabaleta before being left unmarked in the 64th to head home at the back post and make the game safe.
Argentina skipper Messi capped a disappointing night for the World Cup runners-up by having a tame 41st-minute penalty saved by Jefferson.
Reuters