So far, the favorites have prevailed in the round of 16 at the World Cup. South Korea wanted to put an end to this trend against Brazil – but failed miserably.
Brazil reached the World Cup quarterfinals with a convincing performance. Against South Korea, the South Americans won 4:1 (4:0). The goals for the winners were scored by Vinicius Junior (7th minute), Neymar (13th), Richarlison (29th) and Lucas Paquetá (36th). The South Korean goal was scored by Seung-Ho Paik (76th).
For Neymar it was goal number 76 in the “Selecao” jersey. He is now just one goal away from equaling Pele’s record.
How the game went
Brazil coach Tite opted for a very attacking lineup. Lucas Paquetá and Neymar played in the half positions in front of Casemiro in defensive midfield. Both normally play further forward. The forward trio, in the absence of the injured Gabriel Jesus, consisted of Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Richarlison.
It became clear early on why Tite had opted for this lineup. The Seleção overwhelmed South Korea with their attacking quality, taking the lead after just seven minutes. Raphinha made a strong run against several defenders and played the ball from the baseline in front of the South Korean goal. Vinicius Junior took the ball and converted safely.
Brazil did not have to wait long for the second goal. A clearing action by Woo-Young Jung went wrong and the 32-year-old only met Richarlison, who accepted the invitation and took the penalty. Neymar remained ice-cold and increased to 2:0 (13.).
As a result, the record world champions did not take it easy, they pressed for the next goal. And a beautiful combination of Marquinhos, Thiago Silva and Richarlison led to 3:0 by the latter. This was celebrated with a dance with coach Tite. Lucas Paquetá’s 4:0 before the break provided the final point in the first period.
After the break, the Brazilians slowed down, conserved energy and let the South Koreans take over. This almost led to a consolation goal for the team in red. However, Heung-min Son’s shot on 47 minutes was just cleared past Alisson. Brazil’s players were now awake again and went on the counteroffensive. Raphinha had the 5:0 on the foot, but South Korea’s goalkeeper Kim parried his low shot (54.).
Subsequently, there were more chances on both sides, but they did not result in any goals for a long time. A long-range shot by substitute Seung-Ho Paik at least brought South Korea a consolation goal. The last Asian team now has to go home early, while Brazil will now face Croatia in the quarterfinals.