Beat Brazil, but cry. And no joy.
It was in this state that Cameroon found themselves after their 1-0 victory over the Seleção on Friday. Miraculous gain, acquired in stoppage time, which was however not enough for the Indomitable Lions to qualify for the round of 16.
Rather, it was Switzerland, on the strength of their 3-2 victory against Serbia, who took second place in Group H.
Brazil had decided to rest its pillars. But it is estimated that even the South American B team could finish first in most groups at this World Cup, they are so deep in all positions.
His attackers, who had 21 opportunities to hit the mark, will have to refocus their GPS. Of the lot, only 7 shots were on target. And the strong man of the match, the Cameroonian goalkeeper Devis Epassy, erected like a wall at each of these attempts.
PHOTO MOSES CASTILLO, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy
On the other side, the Lions have been patient. By absorbing the majority of the pressure (65% possession in favor of Brazil), they had to be effective in counter-attacking.
Before this match, not only did the Brazilian defense not allow a goal in this World Cup, it also did not allow a shot on target! Solid defenders Thiago Silva and Marquinhos were not in Brazil’s starting lineup on Friday, however.
Hence the importance of Cameroon’s achievement. It is also the very first time that an African team has beaten Brazil in the history of the World Cup.
The Cameroonians placed three shots on the Brazilian frame. Ederson, substitute goalkeeper for Alisson, blocked the first two.
But on the third, at the 92e minute it was completely foiled, and did not move. On the right, Jerome Mbekeli sends a sumptuous center towards the surface. Vincent Aboubakar, the striker on whom all Cameroonian hopes rested in this tournament, is perfectly placed. He receives the leather on his head, and sends it to lodge to the right of the net.
Euphoric, he takes off his shirt. Why not ? You write history by beating Brazil, big favorite of the tournament! The referee joins him, awards him a second yellow card. Aboubakar is therefore expelled. He laughs about it. U.S. too.
PHOTO ANDRE PENNER, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Vincent Aboubakar after scoring the only goal of the match.
It’s still 3-2 for Switzerland in the other match. Cameroon must hope for a Serbian equalizer to move into second position. Goal that will not happen. Bittersweet feeling for Cameroon.
Brazil therefore have an appointment with South Korea next Monday. Switzerland will face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal on Tuesday.