The Swiss produced a trademark no-nonsense display to keep Brazil at bay.
Here are the ratings for Switzerland’s valiant side.
STARTING XI
Yann Sommer 6 – Helpless for Brazil’s goal. His other saves were largely easy, as his defence pulled out some immense peformances.
Stephan Lichtsteiner 6 – Lichtsteiner’s veteran leadership was crucial to Switzerland’s defence as they remained solid in the face of Brazil’s pressure.
Fabian Schar 7 – The Swiss defence’s best player, as he stood tall against Brazil’s skillful attackers. Marshalled his team-mates well.
Manuel Akanji 7 – Finishes with a high mark after a solid second-half display against Brazil’s vaunted attack. The winter signing for Borussia Dortmund is some talent.
Ricardo Rodriguez 7 – In a battle of star left-backs, Rodriguez held his own against Marcelo, proving a tough nut in defence and a valiant presence in attacker.
Valon Behrami 8 – Switzerland’s best performer on the night. A commanding midfield performance, displaying a fighting spirit that inspired his teammates.
Granit Xhaka 5 – Defensively suspect, reduced to fouling more often than not, and couldn’t provide the attacking impetus he usually does for Switzerland.
Xherdan Shaqiri 7 – Didn’t produce the magic he’s capable of, but worked hard, putting in a shift defensively when required and leading attacks when he could. Got the assist for Switzerland’s goal.
Blerim Dzemaili 6 – Composed in possession, as he produced tidy passes and kept control of the ball well, but didn’t have enough of an attacking impact.
Steven Zuber 8 – How crucial will that goal be? Realistically, Switzerland would have written this game off, but thanks to Zuber they have an unexpected point.
Haris Seferovic 6 – Gamely led the line, but didn’t ask enough of Brazil’s defence, who marshalled him well.
SUBSTITUTES
Denis Zakaria 6 – Provided fresh legs after coming on, as Switzerland looked to hold on for a draw.
Michael Lang N/A – Had next to no time to make an impact, coming on with just minutes left in the game.
Breel Embolo N/A – One of Switzerland’s hyped youngsters, but didn’t get enough of a chance to show why during his cameo.
