For a long time, Switzerland kept Brazil in check in the World Cup group match. Also because the South Americans are not convincing in terms of play without superstar Neymar. But then Casemiro hits like a dream. Brazil has already secured the round of 16.
No Neymar, no magic - but early on: Even without his injured superstar, record champions Brazil made it through to the World Cup round of 16 as the second team after defending champions France. In the 1-0 (0-0) win against Switzerland, however, the Selecao around top striker Richarlison lacked the magic for a long time. Casemiro scored the late winner in the 83rd minute.
Even victory in the group is practically certain for the Brazilians given their three-point lead and three-goal advantage over the Swiss. They need a win against Serbia to progress safely, with Brazilian support against Cameroon a draw is enough.
Instead of attacking star Neymar, who suffered a ligament injury in his right ankle in the opening game against the Serbs (2-0), midfielder Fred moved into the starting lineup. Neymar watched the game with his foot in a splint on his bed at the five-star team hotel, according to his Instagram account.
According to Selecao coach Tite, the 30-year-old has to "look from day to day". At home, meanwhile, the long-awaited sacrilegious discussion is being held as to whether the number ten is still needed at all. In any case, Richarlison with his brace was perfect against Serbia. This time, however, the Tottenham striker remained inconspicuous - and this time he was not alone with the yellow-blue-green.
For the Swiss selection, the preparations had by no means gone smoothly. The team bus collided slightly with a police car that was supposed to escort the Confederates safely to Stadium 974. In addition, Xherdan Shaqiri initially sat on the bench with muscle problems. The former Bayern professional is still one game away to become the only Swiss World Cup record player with eleven games.
The game went as expected. The Swiss, who also started with a win (1-0 against Cameroon), gave the South Americans more of the game and concentrated on their order. So it took almost 27 minutes until the first chance, and it was a huge one: Vinicius Junior from Champions League winner Real Madrid failed after a cross from Raphinha from a few meters at Gladbach keeper Yann Sommer, one of five Bundesliga professionals in the Swiss starting XI .
Overall, Brazil developed little pressure in a 4-4-2, the Swiss did not consistently complete their transition situations. Neymar's absence became noticeable and visible. The Yellows celebrated after 64 minutes - but Richarlison was ruled offside when Vinicius Junior scored the opening goal. Casemiro was happier just before the end with his powerful shot, which ex-Dortmund Manuel Akanji easily deflected.
