Brazil struggled to break down a determined Switzerland side, but managed to carve out a narrow 1-0 win in Mondayâs Group H clash.
And our Man of the Match is âŠ
Casemiro (Brazil)
Brazilâs win over Switzerland meant this was the first time they have won their opening two World Cup games for the first time since 2010.
Yet â just like their win over Serbia â this was not the kind of O Jogo Bonito performance you might expect from Brazil, instead a more patient and pragmatic approach that has worked to their advantage so far.
The man that typifies this approach is not one of the more traditional flair players that boss Tite can make his selection from, but a player that gives Brazil a more tenacious element.
Casemiro is a perfect example of a defensive midfielder that can provide the backline with that extra bit of protection, while making accurate passes forward to players who possess the technical ability to take the ball forward and create chances.
Thatâs reflected in the stats from this game as the Manchester United man made three tackles, two interceptions and six clearances against Switzerland, while completing 85.4% of his 48 passes.
Those kind of numbers could see Casemiro awarded the Man of the Match award on their own, but that the 30-year-old popped up with the kind of strike that any forward player in the Brazil squad would be proud of was absolutely the icing on the cake.
What makes Casemiro world class is that little bit of magic that can be the difference maker on top of his more practical skills that make him such a valued member of any side he plays for.
