Though the Brazilians kept the majority of the ball possession, the strikers were unable to score since their efforts were repeatedly stopped by Serbian goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic in the first half, which ended scoreless despite Brazil having the majority of possession.
When Thiago Silva slipped a low pass into the box in the 27th minute, Brazil went dangerously close to gaining the upper hand. However, Milinkovic-Savic made a good save and successfully cleared the ball. He also parried a low shot from the winger Raphinha.
After halftime, Tite’s team came out firing, and Serbia was lucky enough not to fall behind when Milinkovic-Savic made a further outstanding stop on Raphinha and Alex Sandro’s powerful long – range shot hit the post.
After Milinkovic-Savic stopped Vinicius Junior’s close – range attempt, Richarlison finally gave Brazil their well – deserved lead just beyond the hour mark with the 15th shot of the game, seizing on a loose ball in front of goal.
When Vinicius made a brilliant pass to Richarlison, who then completed a perfectly placed bicycle shot to send the ball rocketing past the Serbian goalkeeper to double Brazil’s lead, we watched one of the most beautiful goals of this world cup. Given that it was a truly remarkable acrobatic effort that was completed so well, this may have been the tournament’s sole objective. The Tottenham striker, moved to his left and slammed a lateral volley past Milinkovic-Savic after Vinicius’ cross into the box evaded him as he attempted to control it, giving Brazil a 2-0 advantage.
Nine goals have already been scored by Richarlison for Brazil this year. In a post match interview, Richarlison being asked about his spectacular performance, has this to say,
“I am smelling goals, as my professor Tite once said”, said Richarlison. “At halftime, I promised my teammates that if I had the ball, I would score. And that’s exactly what happened in the match. After a stunning victory, we still have six games to play to accomplish our objective.”
The success is somewhat eclipsed by a right ankle sprain to Neymar, who was replaced in the 80th minute after just being fouled numerous times throughout the game and was seen crying on the Brazil bench. Brazil will need to wait 24 to 48 hours, according to the team doctor, in order to assess his readiness for the remaining portion of the World Cup.
There was no turning back for Serbia as Brazil, who finished the day atop Group H on goals scored over Switzerland, saw out the outcome to cement their status as the tournament’s front – runners.
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