Neymar (R) of Brazil vies with Edson Alvarez (C) of Mexico during the 2018 FIFA World Cup round of 16 match between Brazil and Mexico in Samara, Russia, July 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

SAMARA, July 2 -- Brazil beat Mexico 2-0 in the Samara Arena on Monday to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals thanks to a 51st minute goal from Neymar Jr and an 88th minute goal scored by Firmino.

Mexico started brightly but failed to test Alisson in the Brazil goal and tired as the first half progressed leaving more spaces in midfield, although it wasn't until six minutes after the break that Neymar opened the scoring from close range after great work by Willian.

Chelsea winger Willian was the standout player for Brazil in the second half, as Mexico keeper Guillermo Ochoa produced a string of good saves to keep his side in the game until Firmino's late goal on the break.