Brazil vs Belgium: 5 Talking Points as Belgium knock Brazil out of World Cup 2018

#2 Tite's selections and tactics under the scanner

Martinez won the tactical battle with Tite.

Such is the nature of the sport that life can turn upside down - all in a matter of 90 minutes. Tite's men were looking like a well-oiled machine, a seemingly unstoppable juggernaut well on its way to glory. As long as they were winning and able to overcome the task in front of them he was shielded from the criticism he was receiving from certain quarters.

His selections have been a topic of much debate, with his preference for Gabriel Jesus over the in-form Roberto Firmino and the criminally underused Douglas Costa up front. Tite will have a tough time trying to explain his decisions, especially considering the way Brazil started to dominate the game after both the players were finally subbed on against Belgium.

Gabriel Jesus failed to find the back of the net despite starting every game for Brazil, whereas Firmino managed to get one after coming on in the final three minutes against Mexico. Tite also failed to tackle the challenge posed by Kevin de Bruyne's presence further upfield for Belgium.