Manchester City boss Mark Hughes refused to criticise Brazilian pair Robinho and Elano after their defeat to Portsmouth.

Both players starred for their country in Tuesday night's glamour victory over Italy at the Emirates but turned in desperate displays at Fratton Park.

"At the end of the day international friendlies are different to Premier League games," said Hughes.

"Opposition in the Premier League will try and stop the threat of outstanding football players and today Robbie and Ela, among others, found it difficult to stamp their ability on the game.

"It's not just those two, but a number of players: that's why we struggled.

"Basically you need a number of players playing at the top of their ability to win Premier League games. If you don't hit that level as a team you'll get beaten and that's what has happened today."