Brazil manager Dunga claims referee Martin Atkinson failed to protect his players in their 1-0 friendly win over Chile at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium.

Firmino’s second-half finish ensured Brazil made it eight successive victories as Dunga’s side continued their resurgence since last year’s humiliating World Cup exit.

Despite fielding the likes of Neymar, Alexis Sanchez, Philippe Coutinho and Arturo Vidal, both teams struggled to establish any attacking rhythm.

Instead, the contest was disrupted by a number of heavy challenges, including a first-half stamp on Neymar by Chile defender Gary Medel, who was not given even a yellow card from Atkinson.

Atkinson faced criticism earlier this season when Burnley striker Ashley Barnes escaped punishment for a reckless tackle on Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic, who was subsequently sent off for his reaction.

“Did my players receive enough protection from the referee? They weren’t protected very much,” Dunga said.

“Regarding the incident between Medel and Neymar, that is a decision the referee must make.

“The players have to carry on – there are a lot of cameras that cover everything now so the players just have to play football.”

Brazil’s miserable end to last year’s World Cup, which saw the team thrashed 7-1 by Germany in the semi-finals and then 3-0 to Holland in the third place play-off, led to Dunga being installed as manager for the second time.

The team’s revival under Dunga’s stewardship has included victories over Colombia, Argentina and France, whom Brazil beat 3-1 on Thursday.

“I am very happy with the players’ reaction since the World Cup and how the players are dealing with everything after the World Cup,” Dunga said.

“They are working hard and know the responsibility they have when they play for the Brazilian team. They are determined to change what has happened in the past.”

Chile were arguably the surprise package at last year’s World Cup, where they lost to Brazil on penalties in the last 16, but Jorge Sampaoli’s side have stumbled of late.

This was their third defeat in four friendly matches, coming on the back of losses to Uruguay and Iran, but Sampaoli remained upbeat.

“With three days since the last game (a 2-0 defeat to Iran) it was going to be difficult,” Sampaoli said.

“The overall performance today was good, aside from the result. I’m very happy with the players.”