Brazil continued their winning start to Dunga’s second spell as head coach as Willian’s goal earned a 1-0 victory over Ecuador in New Jersey.
After beating Colombia by the same scoreline at the weekend, the five-time world champions continued their recovery from a disappointing home World Cup.
The game at the MetLife Stadium, home of NFL sides the New York Giants and New York Jets, began in scrappy fashion as both sides made a succession of errors.
But Willian struck decisively in the 31st minute when Oscar’s short free-kick was shuttled on by Neymar and Chelsea midfielder Willian darted through a static defence to tuck home a slick, low finish.
Neymar should have doubled Brazil’s lead from three yards in the second half, yet with an open goal at his mercy he hit the underside of the crossbar.
It almost proved costly as Ecuador threatened an equaliser, with Enner Valencia’s header cleared by Filipe Luis.
Brazil defender Miranda told Globoesporte.com: “It was a great test for us. The type of opponent increased the value of this win because it was a very difficult game.
“Ecuador demanded a lot from us. We are happy for what we did on the field. We are just starting, so there will be mistakes, but the win is important to gain confidence.”
Dunga was appointed for his second stint in charge of Brazil after Luiz Felipe Scolari resigned in the wake of a semi-final exit at the World Cup, where Germany embarrassed the home nation by inflicting a 7-1 defeat on a team that was fancied to lift the trophy.
Brazil play next in Beijing on October 11, when despite being far from home their opponents will be neighbours and arch rivals Argentina.