Brazil defeat Mexico 2-0, head for quarter finals

The Brazilian squad encountered a tough and daring adversary, but beat the Mexicans 2-0 today (Jul. 2) and have secured a spot in the 2018 World Cup quarter finals. Brazil’s forward and brightest star Neymar opened the scoring, and Firmino hit the second.

Now Brazil are to face Belgium—a duel slated to take place Friday (6), already as part of the next stage in the championship, as the Europeans showed the Japanese the exit door this afternoon in Rostov.

Five minutes into the second half, Brazil finally scored, after a move by Neymar and Willian. David Gray / Reuters / All rights reserved.

This was Brazil’s toughest match to date. Mexico showed no patience, but rather started off with pressure and making it difficult for Brazil to push forward. Brazil’s back, however, kept it safe, and despite the initial 30 minutes of hard game, Mexico was unable to reach the goal.

Among Brazil’s highlights was Neymar’s fellow forward Willian, who, with swift moves to the right and sprints to the middle, managed to breach the Mexican defense and backed Neymar for the first goal.

The game

The first half ended goalless, and showed a Mexico more offensive and present on the Brazilian side. The Mexicans were often seen to surround Brazil’s penalty area but goalkeeper Alisson Becker had little work to do, as near-goal kicks and moves were neutralized by the Brazilian defense.

From the 30th minute onwards, the seleção loosened up, but Mexico kept a tight defense and in control of the game.

Second half

Brazil opened the second half on a more menacing note. At the second minute, Coutinho exchanged passes with Neymar, who shot for the goal, but Mexicon goalkeeper Ochoa saved it. Five minutes into the second half, Brazil finally scored, after a move by Neymar and Willian.

Brazil improved after the first goal, and showed more freedom with Neymar and particularly Willian.

Despite more visible skills and their lead in the score, Brazil was having a tough time. Mexico pushed further and further forward as Brazil kept on the lookout for chances to strike back. At the 42nd minute, the men in yellow and blue were given the opportunity they so badly craved. In a quick move, Neymar dashed into the penalty area on the right and sent it low to Firmino, who had just entered the game. All he was left to do was fire it deep into the net and fill Brazilian fans with relief.

Mexico are going back home as they usually do—in the quarter finals. It is the seventh time the Mexicans are knocked out in this stage. This year, however, the world was taken aback by their win over Germany in their opener. Brazil join the final eight in the quest for their much dreamed-of sixth World Cup title.