Brazil-Mexico Tie, Ochoa Outstanding

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Group A returned to action today with host nation Brazil taking on Mexico.  Both teams won their first matches, Brazil beating Croatia and Mexico beating Cameroon.  Today in Fontaleza Mexico came out with the exact same line-up as the previous match that ended in success.  Brazil too fielded nearly the same line-up as before with the exception of Ramires starting in place of the injured Hulk.

Not having Hulk in the line-up seemed to hurt the host nation.  Together Neymar and Fred had several close chances to score, but failed to find the net.  Nor could Jo, who replaced Fred in the second-half.  Thiago Silva had one of the best chances late in the match on a corner-kick for Brazil.  The captain was left unmarked in the box and won a free header.  He was denied by the Mexico keeper though, who came away with a clean sheet.

Guillermo Ochoa, the Mexico keeper, was undoubtedly the man of the match.  Four or five times Ochoa made outstanding plays to deny goals for Brazil.  The back line in front of him also played well with veteran captain Rafa Márquez keeping them organized.  Goal scoring is still a concern for Mexico who again used Chicharito Hernández off the bench.  

Brazil supporters are likely to be disappointed with the scoreless result, but should still be considered favorites to win the group with Cameroon left to play.  Mexico on the other hand should be pleased with taking one point away from the match.  Of course their next match will be against Croatia and should be approached as a must-win game.