Brazil and Costa Rica Play to a Draw

Vinicius Jr. Denied Penalty

In a match that had plenty of chances but few goals, Brazil and Costa Rica played to a 0-0 draw on Friday. The result leaves both teams with one point from their first match in the group stage.

Casemiro Scores for Brazil

Brazil had the better of the chances in the first half, but it was Costa Rica that took the lead in the 56th minute. Joel Campbell found space on the left wing and crossed the ball into the box for Casemiro, who headed home from close range.

Brazil pushed for an equalizer, but Costa Rica defended resolutely. The closest Brazil came was in the 75th minute, when Vinicius Jr. was brought down in the box by Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas. However, the referee waved away the penalty appeals.

Conclusion

The draw leaves both teams with work to do in their remaining group stage matches. Brazil will face Switzerland on Monday, while Costa Rica will take on Serbia. Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout round.