World Cup warm up: Improvements needed from Brazil for Costa Rica clash
Brazil were considered one of the pre-tournament favourites but left a lot to be desired after only managing a 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their first match of the 2018 World Cup.
Tite’s side made a flying start and appeared on course for a huge win after Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring with an early contender for goal of the tournament, but they struggled thereafter.
Switzerland grew into the game and made a particular point to bully Neymar out of the game, which worked to a certain extent. Neymar was fouled 10 times by Switzerland, which is a record in a World Cup game since Alan Shearer suffered 11 fouls against Tunisia in 1998.
The Paris Saint-Germain star looked sharp during Brazil’s preparation matches following a three-month absence through injury but was hugely disappointing against the Swiss.
In fact, only Lionel Messi (8) has been dispossessed more times than Neymar (7) at the 2018 World Cup and he will have to play better against Costa Rica if he proves his fitness in time.
Brazil may actually benefit from Neymar’s potential absence if the 26-year-old continues to be self-indulged. While Neymar still looked threatening, Brazil struggled for rhythm as their star man appeared to hold onto the ball too long.
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He lacked an incisiveness that has made him one of the best players in the world, although Switzerland’s persistent fouling may have played a part in that.
Philippe Coutinho, who could emerge as the star for Brazil this summer after his stunning opener against Switzerland, will move into the front three if Neymar is ruled out.
The 26-year-old put Brazil into the lead with a trademark curling long range effort and will arguably be even more threatening positioned closer to the opposition goal. Fernandinho and Renato Augusto will cover for the space in midfield vacated by Coutinho, which would really allow Brazil’s front three to play with complete freedom.
Costa Rica started their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Serbia and the Oscar Ramirez's side will struggle to get any points on the board this summer. Los Ticos have now lost their last three matches and were thrashed 4-1 by Belgium in that time.
Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Switzerland marked the first time the Selecao failed to win their opening match of a World Cup since 1978. Tite’s side are still expected to qualify from their group without much trouble but they will need to improve tremendously if they want to win a record sixth World Cup. These sorts of performances might be enough in the group stage, but won't when they face fellow international heavyweights in the knockout stage.
