NEW JERSEY, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- Roberto Firmino and Neymar scored first-half goals as Brazil defeated the United States 2-0 in their international friendly here on Friday.

Liverpool striker Firmino netted in the 11th minute at MetLife Stadium with a slick volley at the far post after Douglas Costa's blistering run and cross from the right.

American midfielder Wil Trapp then brought down right-back Fabinho in the box and Neymar coolly converted the penalty on the stroke of halftime. The goal was Neymar's 58th for his country in 91 matches.

Selecao coach Tite made a series of changes after the break, handing Arthur, Lucas Paqueta, Richarlison and Everton their first minutes in a Brazil shirt.

Despite improving in the second half, the hosts did little to trouble Brazil goalkeeper Alisson. Twenty-year-old Schalke midfielder Weston McKennie was one of few USA players to impress in the absence of Borussia Dortmund teenager Christian Pulisic, who missed the match because of injury.

In other friendlies played in the US on Friday, Colombia beat Venezuela 2-1 in Miami, Ecuador defeated Jamaica 2-0 in New Jersey and Uruguay overcame Mexico 1-0 in Houston.