Five-time champions Brazil will face Concacaf giants Mexico in the round of 16 at Russia 2018 after they won Group E by beating Serbia 2-0 at the Spartak Moscow Stadium.

The South Americans thus finished on seven points from three matches, while Serbia were left facing an early flight home after failing to get the win they so desperately needed.

Brazil took the lead in the 36th minute when Paulinho raced through to on to through ball by Philippe Coutinho to lob over the on-rushing goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic.

Serbia pushed for an equaliser but lacked the cutting edge and were caught by a classic suck-punch when Thiago Silva headed home powerfully from an outswinging Neymar corner on 68 minutes.

Brazil by virtue of winning the group advances to the last 16 where they will meet the Mexicans who secured the runner up spot in Group F.

The Swedes will take on Switzerland who ended on 5 points after twice giving away the lead en route to a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica.

Play in the first round comes to a close on Thursday with action Groups G and H respectively.

The big clash on the day takes place in Kaliningrad where England and Belgium face off in a clash of unbeaten teams for top spot in Group G while Tunisia and Panama meet in a dead rubber contest.

In Group H, three teams – Japan, Senegal and Colombia – are separated by a point.

Japan, who lead on goal difference and need only a draw to advance, face Colombia who need all three points to go through.

Victory for second place Senegal against bottom of the table Poland would assure them of a place in the last 16.