Cameroon claimed a memorable 1-0 victory over Brazil in the World Cup on Friday, but failed to advance to the last 16. Vincent Aboubakar headed in a stoppage-time winner before being sent off.
In the 92nd minute, Aboubakar, who had replaced captain Rigobert Song’s team, connected with a cross from substitute Jerome Ngom Mbekeli to break the deadlock at Doha’s Lusail Stadium.
He was booked for removing his shirt during the wild celebrations that followed and, having already been warned, had to leave his teammates to finish the game. They did so to record a historic victory, but Switzerland’s 3-2 victory over Serbia at the same time meant the Swiss advanced from Group G.
Brazil topped the group after winning their first two matches in Qatar, and will face South Korea in the last 16 when many of their key players who were rested for this game will return.
Coach Tite fielded a reserve team, and the result was Brazil’s first defeat in a World Cup group stage since 1998, when they were defeated by Norway.
Tite’s focus was on the knockout stage as he made nine changes, including starting 39-year-old Dani Alves, who became Brazil’s oldest men’s international player.
The spine of Brazil’s second-string side still included Ederson of Manchester City in goal, Eder Militao of Real Madrid in central defense, Fabinho of Liverpool in midfield, and Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal supported by Rodrygo up front.
On the left, they also had the 21-year-old Gabriel Martinelli, who was their standout performer.
Aboubakar grabbed the late winner just when a goalless draw looked the most likely outcome, and Cameroon deserve huge credit for taking four points from such a difficult group even if they now go home
SOURCE: Sportsbrief.com
