Casemiro goal downs Switzerland to take Brazil into World Cup last 16

Brazil’s forward #18 Gabriel Jesus (C) argues with Slovenian referee Ivan Barton during the Qatar 2022 World Cup Group G football match between Brazil and Switzerland at Stadium 974 in Doha on November 28, 2022. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

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 Swiss side at Doha’s Stadium 974 and it looked as if they would have to settle for a point after a Vinicius Junior strike in the second half was disallowed for offside following a VAR check.

But then, with seven minutes remaining, Rodrygo flicked the ball onto Casemiro just inside the box and the Manchester United midfielder’s volley flew into the net with the help of a slight but significant deflection off Manuel Akanji.

Tite’s side is just the second team to qualify for the last 16 after France and the only side apart from the holders to have won both groups matches so far in Qatar.

Brazil’s forward #21 Rodrygo reacts to a missed chance during the Qatar 2022 World Cup Group G football match between Brazil and Switzerland at Stadium 974 in Doha on November 28, 2022. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

“We had to be patient against an experienced side who know how to play the game. It was always going to be decided by little details but we knew we would have plenty of possession and thankfully we managed to get the goal.”

With six points, Brazil will be tempted to rest players for their final Group G game against Cameroon on Friday, when a draw will secure the top spot.

Switzerland, meanwhile, failed to