Five time champions Brazil have secured their entry into the knockout round of the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 win over Switzerland in their Group G clash this Monday at Stadium 974 in Doha.
Coming from a stellar 2-0 victory over Serbia, a Neymar-less Brazil took on the Swiss who have been stout with their 1-0 win over Cameroon.
Right from the start, the absence of Neymar as well as right back Danilo was felt heavily in the Brazilian attack while Switzerland kept toe to toe with the South American heavyweights in possession.
Going goalless into the second half, both sides earned brilliant chances in taking the lead, but both Fabian Rieder and Richarlison’s efforts for the Red and Yellow shirts, respectively, went in vain.
Just past the one hour mark, it appeared that Brazil finally had their breakthrough with Vinicius Junior receiving from Rodrygo on the left flank before slipping past Swiss keeper Yann Sommer, but a prolonged VAR check dismissed the Real Madrid star’s effort.
The deadlock continued until the 83rd minute when Vinicius flicked a through to Casemiro, who half volleyed a strike that deflected Switzerland center back Manuel Akanji to end up in the nets.
Minutes before the stoppage, Rodrygo had a chance to increase the lead for the Selecao, but Sommer made brilliant efforts in keeping the ball out. Nonetheless, the 1-0 win earned Brazil the top spot in Group G, as well as a knockout berth.
Final Score: Brazil 1 – 0 Switzerland
Goals:
BRA – Casemiro – 83rd minute
