The tournament favorites rocket to the top of Group G after moments of brilliance shatter Serbia’s resolve.
Brazil’s Richarlison powered his side to a 2-0 win against Serbia at Lusail Stadium as the tournament favorites opened their World Cup campaign in brilliant style.
The 25-year-old striker opened the Seleção’s account after the hour of play in Group G on Thursday night and shortly after, in the 73rd minute, added a spectacular second.
The latest strike saw the Tottenham Hotspur striker convert a cross from winger Vinicius Jr by lobbing the ball over his head before leaping into the air to volley home with an impressive bicycle kick.
Serbia, who had offered staunch resistance for the first two-thirds of the game, were then forced to chase shadows on their final shots as Brazil’s players lobbed the ball and made regular forays into their opponents’ box, underscoring their credentials as the most dangerous in the competition.
Serbia, for their part, had been sweating over the fitness of their all-time top scorer, Aleksandar Mitrovic, but coach Dragan Stojkovic named him the starter.
Unlike Brazil’s forward line, however, which threatened from all sides, the Fulham striker found himself isolated up front with little serve.
The result leaves Brazil at the top of Group G, followed by Switzerland in second place after the European team’s win over Cameroon on Thursday.
The South American giants, seeking their sixth World Cup win, will play Switzerland next Monday. Serbia plays Cameroon on the same day.