World Cup 2018: 3 things we learned as Brazil beat Costa Rica

#2 Coutinho is a brilliant midfielder

Philippe Coutinho - maestro

After having scored Brazil’s only goal against Switzerland on Sunday, Coutinho again rescued them by scoring the first goal against Costa Rica. Coutinho showed his opportunism by surging into the penalty box and slotting home the opening goal.

He played in central midfield for the majority of the match and created a number of opportunities for the forwards. He also had his shot brilliantly saved by Navas in the first half.

Coutinho played some penetrative long balls to Neymar in the first half. He played a decent through ball to Gabriel Jesus as well, but the youngster could not score from it.

He continued his tireless work in the second half and remained a constant threat to the Costa Rican defence.