Cameroon become the first African team to defeat Brazil at a FIFA World Cup
Vincent Aboubakar scored in stoppage time but was sent off for removing his shirt.
Bryan Mbuemo brought an excellent save from Manchester City’s Ederson, deputizing for Liverpool’s Alisson, but Switzerland’s win against Serbia destroyed Cameroon’s chances of advancing.
Brazil had already qualified after their first two games, so coach Tite made 10 changes. Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli impressed with a superb performance, but Cameroon goalie Devis Epassy stopped him multiple times.
The pre-tournament favorites ended top of Group G despite the loss and will face South Korea in the knockout phase after their late win against Portugal edged out Uruguay, who beat Ghana, on goals scored.
Brazilcruising
Brazil won their group games against Serbia and Switzerland, allowing coach Tite to alter his formidable squad.
Tite may not be too frustrated by the loss since it didn’t affect their group placement and he has fresh legs for the knockout stage.
Arsenal’s 21-year-old Martinelli was Brazil’s best player. Cameroon keeper Epassy made superb saves on an early header and a second-half effort.
Martinelli’s tireless running and talent made him a thorn in Cameroon’s side and made a strong argument for his participation if Tite decides to make adjustments.
Brazil’s two triumphs have justified their pre-tournament expectations; now they’ll hope Neymar can recover from his ankle injury in time to contribute.
Cameroon finish strong
Rigobert Song’s Cameroon added to the quality and excitement of the group stages in Qatar.
Cameroon always posed a threat, which was realized when Aboubakar headed past Ederson in stoppage time.
Referee Ismail Elfath almost apologised for sending him him for pulling off his shirt in joy.
Epassy won man of the match, especially against Martinelli.
Cameroon lost their initial game to Switzerland but rallied from 3-1 down to tie Serbia and beat Brazil in front of 85,986 supporters in Lusail.
The “Indomitable Lions” have had their times in Qatar.
