Gilberto relished Ireland test

Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva believes the Republic of Ireland provided the perfect test as Brazil continued their preparations for the World Cup with a 2-0 friendly win at the Emirates Stadium.

The Republic – who missed out on a place at South Africa following a controversial play-off defeat to France – held their own for the first half against the five-time world champions, and could have taken the lead when Kevin Doyle’s header was palmed away by Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar.