Fred rescues Brazil in 1-1 draw with Russia

LONDON - Fred scored a 90th-minute equalizer to save Brazil from a second loss inside two months in London, although the 1-1 draw against Russia on Monday left the 2014 World Cup hosts without a win since Luiz Felipe Scolari returned as coach.

Fred scored for Brazil for the fourth-straight match by completing a flowing move instigated by substitute Hulk, tapping Marcelo’s cross into the net from close range at Stamford Bridge.

Russia had been heading for its first win against Brazil after Victor Fayzulin netted in the 73rd minute.

But Scolari was spared a miserable return to the Chelsea ground where he was in charge for only seven months before being fired in 2009.

Rehired in a bid by Brazil to repeat his 2002 World Cup triumph, Scolari is yet to see his side look capable of winning a sixth title at home next year.

“There are no shortcuts for success - you need to win in stages and we have to go to each stage to reach the final goal,” Scolari said through a translator.