Brazil, the five-time champions, defeated Switzerland 1-0 to advance to the World Cup knockout stage. Manchester United player Casemiro scored the game-winning goal.
He scored just seven minutes from the end with a first-time effort that sailed past goalkeeper Yann Sommer into the far corner of the goal.
With a win over Cameroon in their final game, Brazil will secure top spot in the group and build on their earlier victory over Serbia.
After the hour mark, Vinicius Jr. swept in the ball, believing for a moment that Brazil had broken the deadlock. However, VAR disallowed the goal for offside.
During the majority of the game, Switzerland remained compact and lacked any attacking threat, failing to score. Murat Yakin’s team may have thought they would get at least get a point from the match and for much of it, it looked like that would be the case.
Casemiro moment of genius livens up drag game
The game for the best part was a drab, goalless draw before one moment of brilliance, which livened up the crowd and fans.
Brazil played quick interchanged passes before substitute Rodrygo slipped a pass in for Casemiro to shot an angled finish with the outside of his boot.
Brazil’s star man Neymar is currently injured and won’t recover until the knockout stage. Without Neymar, Brazil has lacked inspiration but the team remains the favourite to win the World Cup.
The Swiss abandoned their defensive shape when they conceded late on and further chances came Brazil’s way – though they were unable to capitalise on them.
Group G table – Brazil through to Round of 16
Brazil sit at the top of Group G – with six points and still a game to play. After this win, they are automatically through to the Round of 16.
Switzerland are in second place with three points, and a game still to play.
Brazil play Cameroon and Switzerland play Serbia next Friday night.
‘When we win, we win together; when we lose, we lose together’
The goal also delighted Brazil greats Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Cafu, who were sitting together watching the game inside the stadium.
“I scored but is important to have assisted the whole team,” said the midfielder, who was player of the match.
“When we win, we win together; when we lose, we lose together. It doesn’t change my mindset.
“This is a group, the Brazil national team as players, we must play as a group. That is most important to get the title.”
Neymar tweeted after the game: “Casemiro has been the best midfielder in the world for a long time.”
Asked about his opinion, manager Tite replied with a smile and said: “As a habit, I always respect opinions. I usually don’t comment but I will allow myself to do so today. I agree.”
