FIFAWC 2022: Richarlison the hero as stylish Selecao ease past Serbia

Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison was brilliant for Brazil as they claimed a 2-0 win over Serbia in their Group G meeting at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The pre-tournament favourites got off to a flying start in Qatar against their European opposition.

The Selecao came into the game against Serbia with the billing of favourites in the tournament. Their talented squad was tipped to go all the way and win their first FIFA World Cup since 2002.

Brazil were on the front foot from the first blast of the whistle but were met by a resolute Serbian rearguard, with goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic impressing. The Torino keeper denied Raphinha on several occasions as Brazil struggled to break down the Serbians.

Brazil went in front shortly after the hour mark through Richarlison, who was a doubt for the tournament. The 25-year-old reacted quickest after Milinkovic-Savic parried an effort from Vinicius Junior into his path, and he turned the ball into the net in the 63rd minute.

Selecao remained in control of the situation and ten minutes later, doubled their advantage in superb style through the same man.

Vinicius Junior delivered a skillful cross using the outside of his right foot, and the ball was slightly behind Richarlison, who took a touch to set himself before unleashing a terrific acrobatic effort into the bottom corner of the net in the 73rd minute.

Brazil now sit atop Group G after the opening round of matches, with Switzerland in second place after their earlier win over Cameroon. The Selecao will face Switzerland next in the group looking for a win that could send then through to the next round. Selecao have now extended their record of not losing their opening match at the FIFA World Cup in every edition since 1934. They have also now remained unbeaten in 16 consecutive group-stage matches, a run that stretches back to 1998.