Day five of the FIFA World Cup action ends with Brazil closing their opener with a 2-0 victory over Serbia. Every team has now played in Qatar, with England, Spain, France, and tournament favorites Brazil among the standout performers. It’s a treat to see underdogs take the spotlight with Saudi Arabia and Japan pulling off major upsets. With that set in stone, let’s check out the key talking points of last night’s Brazil vs. Serbia clash.

2022 FIFA World Cup Brazil Opening Game Highlights

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Brazil cements position as tournament favorites

Brazil vs. Serbia matchup wraps up the first batch of 2022 FIFA World Cup games. Both sides looked anxious in the early minutes of the game, especially the +162 World Cup finals favorites, who struggled to get the rhythm going. But, it was a different story altogether as soon the second half took off. The account was opened by Richarlison’s poacher’s finish, followed by the best goal of the event so far by the Tottenham forward. The rest of the Brazilians showcased flair that the Serbians hardly matched.

Proving why they are the tournament favorites and contenders to claim their sixth World Cup title, and first, in two decades, attackers Gabriel Jesus, Antony, and Rodrygo gave life off the bench. This emphasizes the depth put together by head coach Tite and could prove crucial in the latter stages of their campaign.

Neymar suffers ankle injury mid-game

The Serbians made it challenging for +989 2022 FIFA World Cup top goalscorer favorite Neymar. He was the recipient of nine fouls and sustained an injury to his right ankle after a tackle by Nikola Milenkovic. His right ankle was visibly swollen after he was replaced by Antony in the 80th minute. Brazil’s manager Tite stayed in high spirits, saying that the injury wouldn’t sideline Neymar in the coming games.

Reports tell us that the Paris Saint-Germain forward will undergo testing on Friday to determine the injury’s extent, leaving his status for Monday’s second group-stage game versus Switzerland unclear. Brazil’s team doctor confirmed the ankle sprain and said that the swelling needed to moderate before further assessment. Nonetheless, the five-time World Cup winners will go on as -244 favorites to win the match against the Red Crosses.

Richarlison paves the way for Brazil

Before finding ways to penetrate the Serbian defense, Brazil had struggled to create opportunities. It was only until Richarlison scored from close range in the 62nd minute. Thanks to Vinicius Junior’s vision, his assist on both goals propelled the team to their first win of the tournament.

Tite justified his decision of keeping the Tottenham forward in the lineup as he scored the only two goals of the game. It took time before he warmed up, but the pair of goals were warmly welcomed by the Selecao. Alex Sandro was the only other player who nearly found the back of the net when he hit the woodwork moments before Richarlison’s opener.

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