Fortaleza (Brazil): Not many had heard the name of the Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa until he produced at least two stunning saves in a heroic display to deny a dominant Brazil a win in a high-voltage World Cup clash. here Tuesday.
The 28-year-old Ochoa, who plays in France for AC Ajaccio, first thwarted Neymar's 26th minute header with a spectacular dive to his right and then again blocked Thiago Silva's headed attempt in the 87th minute to the huge groan of the sea of yellow-clad Selecao fans.
Superstar Neymar, who scored two goals in Brazil's 3-1 opening match win against Croatia, had plenty of the ball and made some threatening runs into the rival box under hot and humid conditions at Estadio Castelao.
But ultimately, the five-time champions failed to break down the stubborn Mexican defence and the seemingly impenetrable wall thrown around their goal by Ochoa. Mexico survived the grinding offence from Brazil and frustrated the hosts' march to the round of 16 qualification.
After today's draw, the second scoreless draw of this World Cup after Iran vs Nigeria yesterday, Brazil and Mexico occupy to top spot in Group A on four points each. The group, which also has Croatia and Cameroon as other teams, is now wide open.
