Brazil got the strategic edge

Besides playing crucial role to secure berth for the knockout stage, the last round matches of group A carried another strategic importance. Along with securing place for the rounds of 16, host Brazil got the strategic edge defeating Cameroon 4-1 to finish on top, ahead of Mexico on equal seven points that overcame Croatia 3-1.

The winner of group A is scheduled to lock horns with group B winner and vice-versa. Thus both Brazil and Mexico, the top two finishers of group A wanted to avoid the Netherlands, winner of group B. Similarly, the Netherlands, one of the favorites, also wished to avoid the home team. Monday´s group B result means, Brazil meets Chile, the group B runner-up and Mexico gets the Netherlands as its pre-quarterfinal opponent. 

Chile is comparatively weaker opponent in comparison to the Netherlands. Besides, Brazil and Chile both belonging to South America are well known foes and have clashed numerous times in the past.

Having already crashed out the match was just a formality for Brazil´s opponent side Cameroon. Thus Brazil that was forced for a 0-0 draw by Mexico achieved convincing win. Though Brazil was not too superior, it was up to the mark. Unlike Brazil, Cameroon had come up with few youth players in the squad and put a lot of efforts. However, they lacked teamwork and coordination.

As Cameroon was in a nothing-to-lose situation, it played freely which gave advantage to the home team. Brazil came up with sound buildup from all departments - defense-midfield-forward. The much expected player Neymar was simply outstanding. He is a forward having ability to threat opponent at any moment.

Despite being allowed to take early lead through Neymar, Brazil conceded the equalizer in less than 10 minutes due to defensive lapses as there was no marking in the dangerous situation. If Brazil does not improve its defense line up in the knockout stage, it could cost the team dearly.

However, the most positive aspect of Brazil was each played looked confident against Cameroon. But dubbed as title winner, Brazil failed to maintain cent percent winning streak in the group stage and the performance was also inferior in comparison to Germany, Netherlands and France. Adjudging Brazil´s show in the group stage its title claim seems like bubbles of water. 

The judgment of referee also looked poor. 

The winner of other match of the same group between Mexico-Croatia would have advanced into the round of 16. But Mexico had slight advantage and a draw was sufficient for the team to make to next round. 

Mexico seems to have gone for draw before the interval. Both the sides wasted some chanced in the first half. But Mexico changed its strategy 25 minutes past second half, resorted to attacking football and achieved scores. It netted three goals in the span of 10 minutes. 

Brazil´s 2-1 lead in the first half prompted Mexico to change its strategy because of its desire to avoid Netherland in the pre-quarterfinal round. But to start with the strategy of draw was not a flaw. Firstly, they wanted to make sure of their place in the round of 16. 

Croatia came under pressure due to must win situation and failed to play the match freely.