Sports - South African Pienaar Pulls Out Of Brazil Friendly

South Africa captain Steven Pienaar has pulled out of Friday's friendly against Brazil in Sao Paulo, a statement from the country's football association said on Sunday.

The Everton midfielder withdrew from the game after pulling a thigh muscle during Saturday's 2-0 defeat by West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League.

Racing Genk full back Anele Ngcongca, who picked up an injury in his team's UEFA Europa League tie against Luzern last week, is also missing while South Africa Footballer of the Year Siyabonga Nomvethe is a doubt.

Friday's match is the first in charge for new South Africa coach Gordon Igesund, brought in after the 2010 World Cup hosts failed to win either of their opening two qualifiers for the 2014 finals in Brazil.