A pulsating encounter in Samara remained level at half-time.

Brazil improved as the half wore on but the first period ended goalless as Mexico proved themselves a match for the World Cup favoruites.

Neymar tricked his way past Edison Alvarez for Ochoa to block and the goalkeeper had to be alert again to stop Gabriel Jesus' low effort.

In the end it was the Mexicans who were pleased to hear the half-time whistle as Brazil finished the opening 45 minutes on top.

And within six minutes of the second, they had the breakthrough.

Neymar's second goal of the tournament gave Brazil a 51st-minute lead. Willian took Neymar's clever back heel to round Ayala and Brazil's talisman continued into the box to slide home the Chelsea man's cross.

GOAL! Brazil 2-0 Mexico (Firmino)
16:46
GOAL! Brazil 1-0 Mexico (NEYMAR)
16:06
PEEP! HALF TIME Brazil 0-0 Mexico