Brazil faced no easy task against Switzerland’s organized defense but secured a 1-0 victory on Monday, November 28, at Stadium 974 (the famous arena built with containers on the shores of Doha Bay that will be dismantled at the end of the Cup), which guaranteed them one of the two spots in Group G for the knockout stage of the Qatar Cup in advance.
The victory had a special flavor, as it was the first for the Brazilian national team against the European team in World Cups, after two draws (in the 1950 World Cup held in Brazil and the 2018 World Cup in Russia).
The first plays constructed by the Brazilian team explored Richarlison’s speed on the wing. However, no opportunities were created, which meant goalkeeper Sommer did not need to take action. It was clear that a dribbler like Neymar was needed to break through Switzerland’s defensive lines. By opting for two holding midfielders in the starting lineup, Casemiro and Fred, Tite believed that Paquetá could fulfill this role. However, he appeared less than expected.
In the second half, Tite made several substitutions. Switzerland, static in defense, held onto the 0-0 and gave up attacking. Until, at 37 minutes, Casemiro finally received a pass from Rodrygo in the area, struck it first time, and hit it hard to shake the net defended by Sommer and score a stunning goal.
A match in which Brazil showed little football in the first half but did enough to win. In a World Cup, sometimes, more important than playing beautifully is winning matches.
In the next round, starting at 2 PM (Eastern Time) on Friday (2), Brazil (already qualified for the Round of 16 and poised to finish first in the group) will face Cameroon. At the same time, Switzerland will have a European duel against Serbia.
Source: By Carlos Molinari / Agência Brasil