Brazil failed to break down the stubborn defence of Latin neighbours Mexico in Fortaleza after a stirring goalkeeping performance from visiting stopper Guillermo Ochoa.
The hosts were never really close to delivering the free-flowing, fast-paced football for which they are renowned and will go into their final group game against Cameroon with many questions to answer.
Forward Hulk was sacrificed for Ramires as head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari changed his starting line-up from the opening day win over Croatia, but in reality it was Ochoa who had the biggest bearing on the outcome of this game.
The keeper, who is without a club but not for long on this evidence, denied Neymar from scoring a wonderful first-half header and also stopped a Brazilian scramble six yards out before the break.
Another double save from Neymar preceded a fantastic instinct block from home skipper Thiago Silva as Brazil"s luck in front of goal deserted them.
And Mexico will be rueing their missed opportunities late on, after Andres Guardado and Raul Jiminez missed late chances to sneak an historic win.
Brazil now turn their attentions to their final group fixture against Cameroon on Monday June 23 in Brasilia, a game they must win to keep up hopes of topping their section.
Brazil: Julio Cesar; Daniel Alves, Marcelo, David Luiz, Thiago Silva (c); Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, Ramires [Bernard 46"]; Oscar [Willian 84"], Neymar, Fred [Jo 68"].
Unused Subs: Jefferson, Fernandinho, Hulk, Dante, Maxwell, Henrique, Hernanes, Maicon, Victor.
Head Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Mexico: Ochoa; Aguilar, Rodriguez, Marquez, Moreno, Layun; Herrera [Fabian 76"], Vazquez, Guardado; Peralta [Hernandez 73"], dos Santos [Jimenez].
Unused subs: Corona, Salcido, Reyes, Pulido, Ponce, Brizuela, Aquino, Pena, Talavera
Head Coach: Miguel Herrera
