Rooney Scores For England Against Brazil

Wayne Rooney curled home a spectacular strike for England in Rio de Janeiro, but it wasn't enough to give Roy Hodgson's side a famous victory over Brazil.

The United striker's slightly deflected effort in the 78th minute put England 2-1 ahead after Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's shot had levelled Fred's opener but, just as the Three Lions looked set to stage a shock, Paulinho volleyed in a quick equaliser to ensure a draw.

That was the least Brazil deserved after bossing matters for long periods. England, with Michael Carrick and Phil Jones in central midfield, were indebted to Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart in a one-sided, but goalless first period.

England grew in stature after the break, however, with Carrick providing a key defensive shield and Jones moving to right-back, and Rooney might also have scored a header shortly before his eye-catching 36th strike for his country.

Meanwhile, fellow United striker Danny Welbeck sat out proceedings, nursing the same knee injury which kept him out of last week's Wembley draw with the Republic of Ireland.