WC: Brazil 1-1 Switzerland

Zuber scored for Switzerland

Brazil made a stuttering start to their World Cup campaign as Switzerland dug in for a 1-1 draw in their Group E opener.

Philippe Coutinho, who was 50/1 pre-game to win the Golden Boot, scored a stunning effort with just under 20 minutes played to give his side the lead. However, Steven Zuber's header early into the second-half drew Switzerland level and they held firm for a precious point.

With their first real opportunity of the game, Brazil took the lead thanks to Coutinho's wonder strike. The Barcelona man took a touch before unleashing a curling effort from outside the area past a helpless Yann Sommer and into the top corner of the Switzerland net.

Brazil appeared to be in control, but were stunned when Switzerland equalised shortly after the break. A corner from Xherdan Shaqiri was met by Zuber, who rose above Miranda inside the six-yard box to direct his header into the roof of the net.

 

Gabriel Jesus felt he should have had a penalty as the game entered its final 15 minutes when he went down in the area, although referee Cesur Arturo Ramos waved play on, and a VAR check supported his decision.

Roberto Firmino had a free header from inside the area turned away from Sommer in the 90th minute as Brazil threw everything at their stubborn opponents, while Miranda also missed an opportunity as Switzerland survived.

The result means that Serbia top Group E after their earlier victory over Costa Rica, who are Brazil's next opponents.