Brazil committed 25 fouls during Wednesday's 2-0 win over Mexico, the highest by any team in a single match at the tournament so far and more even than the 22 Uruguay conceded in the face of Spain's relentless passing game.
Brazil are usually associated with the finer arts of the game, yet systematic fouling in midfield has often been just as much a part of their football culture, at both club and national team level, as the exuberant skills of their forwards.
Although there was no obvious violence in Wednesday's match at the Castelao, Mexico repeatedly found their moves interrupted by so-called "tactical fouls" such as a sly trip or tug of the shirt.
"I was surprised and a little disappointed at the number of fouls that they have, constantly fouling," said former United States defender Alexi Lalas, analysing the game for ESPN.
"We know how important set pieces are, and that is going to be something to look for if they keep fouling, rather than actually playing the game."
"We have 150 fouls against Palmeiras, 20 against [striker] Kleber and yellow cards were not given," he said.
"If the opponents take it in turns to kick foul the players and the statistics show that, it's time for the federation to have a look at this type of refereeing."
Many critics might agree with those sentiments after watching Brazil's performance against Mexico.
