Brazil, the five-time world champions, defeated Serbia 2-0 on Thursday night at the Lusail Stadium to begin their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign.
In the first half, Brazil clearly had more ball control and scoring opportunities than Serbia did, but Serbia did a commendable job of holding off the tournament favorites.
Late in the first half, after an excellent pass exchange with Paqueta, Raphinha was unable to take advantage of his chance and could only muster a feeble attempt.
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Just 17 minutes into the second half, Brazil scored its first goal, and Richarlison of Tottenham provided the scoreboard-opening assist.
After Neymar successfully evaded three Serbian defenders in the box and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot, Vinicius received the ball. After it was saved, the Spurs striker puts the rebound right into the net.
With 73 minutes remaining, Richarlison once more struck the back of the net to double his tally and give Brazil the victory.
After receiving the ball in the area, the striker touched it once to bring it up before netting a fantastic bicycle kick volley to seal the win and all three points.
With the win, Brazil now has the top spot in Group G, trailed by Switzerland, who defeated Cameroon 1-0, and Serbia, who are currently last.
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There is a lot of pressure on Tite’s team to live up to the enormous expectations set by the fans because Brazil hasn’t won the World Cup in 20 years.
Serbia hasn’t made it out of the group stage in any of its past three World Cups, and this loss makes it clear that they won’t in Qatar either.