Soccer:Brazil made a tame start to their Copa America Group B campaign after being held to a goalless draw by Venezuela at La Plata last night. The five-time world champions spurned several chances but their samba style was in scant supply at the Estadio Unico, with opposing boss Cesar Farias' decision to pack his midfield paying dividends.

The Brazilians had won all five previous meetings between the sides, scoring 25 goals and conceding just once, and seemed set to extend that streak when Robinho was set free inside the opening minute. Pato then hit the bar, before heading a Neymar cross into the accepting gloves of Renny Vega to continue his team-mates' frustrations.

The favourites continued to press after the break but Roberto Rosales and Vizcarrondo remained resolute in the Venezuelan defence and Brazilian urgency diminished. Borussia Monchengladbach's Juan Arango had a chance to make his loftier opponents pay with 15 minutes left but although he had clear sight of goal from the left side of the box, his shot was wide and wasteful.

The cagey opening to the tournament continued as Paraguay and Ecuador played out a goalless stalemate in Santa Fe. This draw means just three goals have been scored in the opening four matches.