Brazil vs. Mexico: 6 Things We Learned

A Neymar-inspired Brazil beat Mexico 2-0 in Group A of the Confederations Cup on Wednesday evening, virtually assuring the Selecao of a place in the semifinals.

For Mexico, the result brings a premature end to their challenge at the competition, adding to the pressure on the shoulders of head coach Jose Manuel de la Torre.

While Brazil had their own issues, in a game that often headed towards the mediocre, it was decided by two moments of real quality.

Let's, then, take a look at six things we can learn from the clash in Fortaleza.

Neymar Can Influence Big Games

There is only one name that will steal the headlines in the morning newspapers—Neymar.

Consistently doubted by those outside of Brazil, Neymar has stepped up for a second consecutive game to take centre stage for his side.

There have been many doubts as to the Barcelona-bound star's ability to influence games at the top level, but he has now shown his ability to come to the fore in competitive action against both Japan and Mexico.

If he was good against Japan, he was excellent against Mexico. Besides a volleyed finish on his weaker foot and marvelous assist for Jo's late goal, there were several moments of individual brilliance throughout the game.

Next up, he will have the chance to impress against European opposition when Brazil take on Italy.

Mexico Are Too Conservative

In response to some poor performances in World Cup qualification, Mexico head coach De la Torre has returned to the familiar names of Gerardo Torrado and Carlos Salcido to anchor the midfield.

The result is a major lack of attacking intent and creativity.

In attack, the fall back is to simply look for Giovani dos Santos to single-handedly inspire the side to success. Despite the Mallorca player's two good showings to date, it is not enough.

In midfield, De la Torre also chose to sacrifice the creative talents of Javier Aquino in favour of right-back Hiram Mier. The result was that full-back Gerardo Flores moved into midfield, just to add to the lack of inspiration.

In the end, the Mexican side's exit was a result of their own caution.

Marcelo Can Be Exposed Defensively

While Brazil claimed victory in Fortaleza, there were several areas of weakness highlighted by Mexico that will worry Scolari ahead of later fixtures against the tournament's best sides.

One such area was the performance of left full-back Marcelo, who was continually picked apart by first Giovani dos Santos, and later Pablo Barrera.

The Real Madrid man is a known quantity, having performed at the highest levels for several years. However, his defensive flaws are particularly highlighted in a Brazil side where Neymar is not always dedicated in his ability to track back with his man.

Marcelo may be good going forward, but another similarly torrid time in defence could see increased calls for the inclusion of Filipe Luis.

Brazil Must Harness the Home Crowd Support

The scenes prior to kick-off were simply incredible, as the Brazilian crowd channeled the country's tensions into a passionate backing for their team.

The national anthem was sung with vigor by players and crowd alike, leaving several of the Brazilian lineup misty-eyed.

These were moments where a currently divided country could unite behind their most famous emblem, in one of the nation's most passionate footballing cities.

Brazil were invigorated, and shot out of the box to give an opening 15 minute display of intensity and quality.

It was some of the best football that the Selecao have played in a long time, and set the side up for an important win.

Paulinho Must Be Allowed to Push Forward, If Selected

There is a debate to be had over the balance of the Brazil midfield, which raised its head following the opening group stage fixture with Japan.

However, if they are to persist with the current selection, then the Selecao must allow Paulinho to play his natural game and push forward.

It will require more discipline from the back four, who all like to move forward themselves, but there is no doubting that Paulinho can be one of the Selecao's sharpest weapons when driving towards the goal.

One second half run in particular highlighted his potential in attack, surging past the Mexican midfield and setting up Neymar for a good chance.

If used correctly, he can be a massively important player for this Brazil side.

It's Time for a New Mexico Era

Mexico are current world champions at Under-17 level, having won the 2011 tournament (which they hosted) and also winning Olympic gold at Under-23 level last year in London.

However, very few of the Under-23 class have made their way into the senior side at this point. Both Hector Herrera and Diego Reyes have done well on occasion, but have been sacrificed in the recent drive for experience.

De la Torre needs to utilize the talent that Mexico is beginning to produce, and use the likes of Javier Hernandez, Giovani dos Santos and Hector Moreno as the senior professionals.

The side which won the Olympic Games beat some excellent sides en-route to success, and must be afforded more opportunity at senior level.