Brazil are course for victory as they build towards this month's Copa America after goals from Philippe Coutinho and Diego Tardelli gave them a half-time lead over Mexico in Sao Paolo.

The Selecao almost took the lead within four minutes when Coutinho's corner was headed over the bar from close range by David Luiz.

Mexico's best period in the first half when Raul Jimenez fired wide, before Eduardo Herrera's speculative volley was collected by Jefferson in the Brazil goal.

Brazil's first shot at goal came midway through the half when Tardelli's strike was way off target.

However, Carlos Dunga's men were in front in the 28th minute when Filipe Luis pass allowed Coutinho to shake off his marker before firing home from a tight angle.

Brazil doubled their advantage moments before the interval when Tardelli atoned for his earlier miss by tapping home from close range.