Late Casemiro goal takes Brazil into last 16 at FIFA World Cup

A Brazil side lacking spark without the injured Neymar needed a late strike from Casemiro to edge out Switzerland 1-0 on Monday as the five-time winners secured their place in the World Cup last 16 with one game to spare.

The Brazilians had been frustrated by an obdurate of a slight but significant Swiss side at Doha’s deflection off Manuel Akanji. Stadium 974 and it looked as Tite’s side are just the if they would have to settle second team to qualify for the for a point after a Vinicius last 16 after France and the Junior strike in the second only side apart from the holders half was disallowed for offside to have won both group following a VAR check. matches so far in Qatar.

But then, with seven With six points they will minutes remaining, Bruno be tempted to rest players Guimaraes flicked the ball on for their final Group ‘G’ to Casemiro just inside the game against Cameroon on box and the Manchester Friday, when a draw will United midfielder’s volley secure them top spot. flew into the net with the help Switzerland, meanwhile, failed to muster a shot on target but remain on course to qualify too, with the draw between Serbia and Cameroon earlier meaning a win against the Serbians will take Murat Yakin’s side through and a draw may also suffice.

They have made a habit of making at least the first knockout round at major tournaments, while Brazil are in Qatar to win a sixth World Cup and nothing less will do.