Brazil came into today’s game missing their talismanic forward Neymar, knowing that a win would see them through to the next round of the World Cup.
Their opponents, Switzerland like the Brazilians also won their opening Group G game, meaning the winner of this game would automatically qualify for the knockout stages. At the 2018 World Cup, Brazil and Switzerland played out a 1-1 draw, a result both teams would’ve been hoping to better.
Switzerland’s setup meant Brazil had to work hard to create clear cut chances. Their best in the first half fell to Vinícius Júnior after Raphinha’s whipped cross found the Real Madrid star just six yards out. However, his effort couldn’t beat Yan Sommer in goal.
After halftime, Brazil picked up were they left off and Switzerland held firm. Vinícius Júnior thought he’d opened the scoring in the 64th minute but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. The game was heading looking like a goalless affair until quick thinking from Rodrygo set up Casemiro in the box. The Manchester United midfielder instinctively lashed a half volley into the top corner, catching the keeper off guard.
Brazil’s win means the South Americans have not lost a World Cup group stage game in 17 matches. They are also just the second team to qualify for the Round of 16, alongside defending world champions France.
The victory leaves Brazil in a solid position to finish as group leaders with six points after two games, three ahead second-place Switzerland. For the Swiss, win against Serbia and qualify alongside Brazil.
