Group A came to an end with Neymar scoring a superb double against Cameroon to seal Brazil’s top spot, whilst Mexico overcame Croatia to qualify and set up a game against Netherlands.
The World Cup hosts approached the tournament in good spirits but an opening day victory over Croatia was followed by a draw with Mexico, leading to some doubts about their title credentials.
But, there final game against Cameroon saw Barcelona’s Neymar produce a superb display and net two superb goals as the hosts ran out 4-1 winners.
Neymar’s 18th minute goal was followed by an equaliser by the African side through Matip but the former Santos forward would quickly put the Brazilians back in front.
Second half goals from Fred and Manchester City’s Fernandinho completed the scoring, setting up a tie for Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side with Chile.
Meanwhile, Croatia and Mexico battled it for second place and a tie against unbeaten Netherlands and it was the latter who ran out winners.
Goals from Rafael Marquez, Guardado and Javier Hernandez cancelled out one from Ivan Perisic to send Mexico through on equal points but less goal difference than Brazil.
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Brazil |
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 2 | +5 | 7 |
 Mexico |
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | +3 | 7 |
 Croatia |
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 3 |
 Cameroon |
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 9 | −8 | 0 |
