Samara, Russia — Neymar barged his way into the World Cup limelight with a goal, an assist and another helping of histrionics as Brazil roared into the quarterfinals with a 2-0 victory over Mexico on Monday. It was a seventh straight last-16 exit for the Mexicans. The PSG forward was both architect and executioner for Brazil, sliding home in the second half and then teeing up Roberto Firmino late on, but he also writhed on the floor, seemingly in agony, after Mexico’s Miguel Layun had made slight contact with his ankle. That should not overshadow his generally positive display as the five-times champions beat a stubborn Mexico, whose World Cup began with such promise with a victory over Germany, but ended in familiar fashion in the first knockout round. It was the seventh World Cup in a row that Brazil have reached the last eight, while Mexico have not made it to that stage since hosting the tournament in 1986. Mexico, who enjoyed an enviable recent record against Brazil having won ...
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