Richarlison came through for the “Seleção” scoring both goals for Brazil.
Neymar, seeking his first major title with Brazil, stayed at 75 goals for the national team, two shy of Pelé’s scoring record and was substituted, apparently injured, late in the game.
Brazil, trying to win its first World Cup in two decades, is unbeaten in its last 20 opening games, with 17 victories.
The South American footballing powerhouse has finished first in its group in the last 10 World Cups.
Brazil and Serbia also played in the group stage in 2018, with Brazil also winning 2-0 to reach the next stage at Serbia’s expense in that tournament.
Since competing as Serbia in 2010, the the country has not advanced to the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
