Don’t put too much stock in the results, though. The two South American teams — along with Spain — are still considered favorites for the title as play continues through the early group stage.

In other matches Monday, Egypt defeated Panama 1-0 in Group E and Mexico had a 3-0 win over North Korea in Group F.

Brazil playmaker Philippe Coutinho scored a goal and set up two others in the later Group E match.

Henrique put Brazil ahead in the 37th minute, directing in Oscar’s cross from near the penalty spot. Coutinho was also involved in that goal, and scored himself with a penalty in the 52nd after Danilo was brought down in the area. The Inter Milan player also set up the third goal with a neat pass to Casemiro, who then found Willian for an easy shot in the 63rd.

“In addition to the victory and the three points, it was important that the team played better and improved,” Brazil coach Ney Franco said. “We hope to improve even more for the next match so we can reach the next round playing even better. We still need to reach a higher level“

Brazil and Egypt have four points apiece after two matches in Group E, but the South Americans lead on goal difference.

The top two teams in each group advance automatically to the knockut stage and will be joined by the four third-place teams with the best records.

England earned something of a moral victory with its scoreless draw against Argentina.

But the draw still gave Argentina four points from two matches in Group F, probably enough to reach the next round. England will need a victory in its last group game against Mexico to advance.