Brazil started their FIFA World Cup campaign on a bright note, defeating Serbia 2-0 in their opening match. A brace from Richardson in the second half saw the five-time champions make a winning start as they now sit level with Switzerland, who beat Cameroon earlier on Thursday (24 November). However, the only concern for the Brazilian management would be an injury to Neymar, who had an ankle problem and was substituted.
What happened in the match?
The European side held the No. 1-ranked team at bay for more than an hour, but the Tottenham forward’s close-range finish finally hit Brazil hard after Vinicius Junior’s shot was pushed into his path by goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic. Gave.
Richardson then lit up Qatar’s Lusail Stadium with a superb strike on the turn that went arrowing past the Serbia goalkeeper to double their advantage. His impressive performances justified his selection as the Brazilian striker ahead of Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus.
Rafinha wasted chances to make a breakthrough either side of the first half, shooting well on both occasions, while Alex Sandro’s effort from distance hit the foot of the post as Tite’s side held on to a determined Serbia team. pushed to break.
Brazil were strong defensively as they extended their unbeaten run to 20 games in World Cup openers. While there will be big tests as the five-time champions look to end their 20-year wait to win the tournament, it has turned out to be a promising start.
Serbia will be strong for an hour
For an hour Serbia made it tough. By the end, it was hard to remember that the Brazilians were so dominant, so fierce, that they were overwhelming their opponents. As soon as Serbia had to go in search of goal, space was created for them to take advantage of.
Vinicius looked so dangerous, causing all kinds of problems. Neymar had his moments, although his injury at the end of the game is a big concern. Such is the depth of attacking talent in this squad, though, that optimism should be the prevailing feeling thereafter.
neymar scares injury
This World Cup was supposed to be Neymar’s redemption song after two failed tilts at the trophy. His vision slumped on the bench after being substituted and the images that have emerged of his swollen ankle are worrying. With 11 days to go before Brazil’s potential round-of-16 clash, Neymar has little time to recover and return to his best form.