The strong favourites at World Cup 2018 continued to flounder as Brazil became the latest to disappoint with a 1-1 draw against Switzerland.
Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring with a superb curling effort in the 20th minute before Steven Zuber nodded home from a corner five minutes into the second half.
Here are the ratings for the Brazil players.
STARTING XI
Alisson 6 – Was a mere spectator as Zuber powered a header past him from close range. Only had one routine save to make. Was good with his distribution.
Danilo 5 – A couple of tackles and clearances aside, he wasn’t very involved in the encounter. He did venture forward from right-back but was unable to make an impact in attack.
Thiago Silva 6 – Led the defence well, making more clearances than any other player on the pitch and was good with the ball at his feet.
Miranda 6 – Zuber was able to nudge him out of the way to get a free header for the goal. Was otherwise faultless as he was dominant in the air and made a couple of good interventions.
Marcelo 6 – The Real Madrid full-back was good going forward and one of Brazil’s more creative players, making three key passes. His delivery from the touchline was lacking though.
Paulinho 6 – Had big chance in the 11th minute when Neymar found him inside the area but got the ball caught under his feet and missed the target. Had a few lively moments otherwise.
Casemiro 6 – Made a few telling contributions from a defensive aspect and did well to keep tabs on Blerim Dzemaili, even picking up a booking for his troubles.
Philippe Coutinho 8 – On a day when Neymar wasn’t at his best, Coutinho looked like Brazil’s chief threat. Scored a sublime opener and looked most likely to get on the score sheet again.
Willian 5 – The Chelsea winger had an uncharacteristically ineffective performance. His delivery was lacking and he gave away possession on a few occasions.
Gabriel Jesus 5 – Had one good moment when he rolled Manuel Akanji inside the box and had a case for a penalty but couldn’t be the focal point Brazil needed. Only Alisson had fewer touches among the starters.
Neymar 5 – After impressing since his return from injury, he disappointed this time around. He buzzed about and got involved but apart a couple of tame shots and a few dribbles, was unable to make an impact.
SUBSTITUTES
Fernandinho 6 – Was brought on in place of Casemiro on the hour mark to help spread play and recycle possession which he did well enough.
Renato Augusto 5 – Replaced Paulinho to provide fresh legs and drive from midfield but was unable to make an impact.
Roberto Firmino N/A – Had a good moment when he flicked the ball into his own path but blazed over from a narrow angle.
