Pre-tournament favourites Brazil eased into World Cup 2018’s round of 16 as goals in each half from Paulinho and Thiago Silva confirmed Serbia’s elimination with a 2-0 defeat.
Tite’s men had underwhelmed in the opening Group E-draw with Switzerland and late victory against Costa Rica, meaning they needed to avoid defeat to guarantee progression. These worries dissipated in the 36th minute when Paulinho latched onto fellow midfielder Philippe Coutinho’s deft pass and lobbed over advancing Serbia goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic.
Serbia threatened near the hour mark, but their quest was definitively ended when centre-back Silva powerfully headed in the improved Neymar’s corner.
The record-five-time winners topped their section and will now meet Group F-runners-up Mexico.
