Philippe Coutinho has admitted that Brazil's World Cup encounter with Costa Rica was "tough" and hailed his side's patience en route to a 2-0 win.

The five-time world champions seemed poised for another draw as Friday's Group E clash at the ​Krestovsky Stadium remained goalless heading into the closing stages.

However, Coutinho's 91st-minute strike and Neymar's follow-up saw the Selecao record an important victory which puts them top of the group.

"It was a tough game as we expected," the Barcelona star told reporters. "We showed good patience to play until the last minute where we were rewarded with those two goals.

"We know the responsibility is huge when you're playing for Brazil. Emotionally, the professor (Tite) always highlights the mental strength we need from the start to the end."

Brazil are now unbeaten in 13 games, conceding just three goals during the run.