Despite losing important link player Marcelo through injury as early as the 8th minute, Brazil had enough on the bench to hardly notice the difference and totally dominated possession and territory from the outset.
Too speedy for the Serbs, they had to suffer numerous heavy tackles destined to break up promising movements.
Brazil were twice through but offside in the first 3 minutes and their first major assault on goal came in the 24th minute when Neymar’s curling shot was saved by the outstretched hand of Vladimir Stojkovic
Soon after, Gabriel Jesus was put through and as the Serbs waited for a flag that never came, he saw his delayed shot blocked.
Serbia had a serious chance in the 33rd minute as Aleksandar Mitrovic tried an overhead kick but the Newcastle striker failed dismally to do an Alan Shearer impersonation.
Three minutes later Brazil were on the score board when Paulinho ran from deep, let the long pass bounce in front of him and calmly lobbed it over the advancing Vladimir Stojkovic.
Paulinho and Neymar – twice – both came close during the middle period of the half but Serbia suddenly start switching on and bombarded the Brazilian goalmouth, coming ominously close on three occasions.
The fighter was taking it to the boxer and in the 64th minute Brazilian goalie Alisson was called on to save at his feet.
Paulinho was taken off for Fernadinho to settle the midfield Serbia were steadily dominating, but their hopes faded when Neymar’s 67th minute corner was headed home by Thiago Silva for 2-0 and Brazil making sure of topping the group.
Brazil were now on fire but sensibly looked to protect their lead rather than seek another goal that would change nothing.
Even at half pace, they were still outplaying the Serbs
Neymar could have done more damage near the close but was denied by Stojkovic.
So, Serbia out, Brazil and Switzerland through; Brazil looking like they can go all the way, Switzerland unconvincing.
