Switzerland produced a magnificent rearguard action as they largely kept Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament favourites Brazil at bay via a 1-1 draw in their Group F clash at the Rostov Arena on Sunday evening.

Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho shot Brazil into the lead on 20 minutes with a fabulous strike but the five-time champions could not build on the lead as Steven Zuber levelled matters for the Europeans from a corner kick five minutes after the halftime interval.

Switzerland thereafter coped with the attacking threat from Brazil to record a well earned point.

Both teams now occupy joint second in Group F behind leaders Serbia ahead of the second set of games in the group on Friday.

Brazil face Costa Rica while Switzerland do battle with fellow European side Serbia as the race to qualify reaches fever pitch.