Brazil continued the trend of tournament favourites underperforming as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Switzerland. Despite dictating the pace of the game, Brazil were never completely dominant.
The five-time champions Brazil failed to extend their lead and were punished early in the second half.
Brazil were well in charge after Philippe Coutinho struck a sublime goal to open the scoring. They kept their attacking pace going but failed to find the net. Switzerland’s rather toothless attack to thank for not taking advantage of the possession and space the underdogs were afforded.
Tite’s side remained somewhat subdued by their own high standards. Neymar, who just returned from injury failed to make a mark in his return. He was also harshly targeted by the Swiss players and was the victim of 10 fouls.
Switzerland can reflect on an excellent start to their campaign. They have claimed a point from the most difficult of their group matches. It also improved their chances of reaching the knockout stages for the second consecutive tournament.
Vladimir Petkovic’s side began on the front foot. However, their promising start could not last. Paulinho almost dragged a shot across the face of goal and wide of the far post with 10 minutes played.
Just 10 minutes later, Switzerland were reeling from a piece of sublime, quintessentially Brazilian skill. Having taken the lead, Brazil slowed the pace of the game down and frustrated Switzerland
Switzerland drew level only four minutes into the second half. A corner from Shaqiri found Zuber unmarked on the edge of the six-yard. He had the simple task of heading the ball beyond Alisson and high into the centre of the goal.
Two late chances fell to Brazil substitute Roberto Firmino. But the Liverpool forward lashed the ball over before drawing a reaction save from Sommer with a close-range heade. In the end, Switzerland successfully secured a valuable point against the five time champions.
FT: Switzerland 1-1 Brazil
Coutinho 20′ | Zuber 50′