World Cup round of 16 power rankings: Can anyone stop Brazil?
By James Dudko
1. Brazil
The favourites didn’t quite fire on all cylinders, but were still good enough to win Group E. Consecutive 2-0 wins over Costa Rica and Serbia helped the selecao banish the memory of a sluggish 1-1 draw with Switzerland.
Those results also showcased the stronger foundations this squad is built on. Granted, neither Costa Rica nor Serbia would ever be mistaken for potent attacking forces.
Even so, back-to-back clean sheets are welcome news for a Brazil squad still stung by the 7-1 humiliation on home soil at the hands of Germany in the semi-final four years ago.
Key center-back Thiago Silva missed the game, but is on form in Russia. The 33-year-old scored against Serbia and is leading a more resolute back line.
Silva and Co. are helped by the presence of Real Madrid ace Casemiro, who is the best holding midfielder in the tournament. His stubborn screening of the back four will ensure Brazil remain tough to beat in the knockout rounds.
Inspiration up top will naturally come from Neymar, who has already had enough highlights and lowlights for one tournament. Diving, shows of dissent and overturned penalties aside, the mercurial No. 10 remains a player capable of brilliance.
Thankfully, the selecao are not as reliant on Neymar as in years past. Philippe Coutinho has been terrific in midfield, while Willian, Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino can all score and create.
Brazil have enough flair and know-how to outlast Mexico in the last 16 and remain the team to beat as the competition progresses.