BOSTON, June 7: Venezuela struck twice in the opening half to register a first victory over Brazil on Friday, the 2-0 friendly triumph in Boston stunning the five-time world champions, who had won all 17 of the sides’ previous matches.

Clinically-taken goals from Giancarlo Maldonado and Ronald Vargas secured the win over a Brazil team that will need to show far more commitment if they are to be successful against Paraguay and Argentina in World Cup qualifiers later this month.—Reuters