FIFAWC 2022: Aboubakar the hero as Cameroun makes history against Brazil

Cameroun captain Vincent Aboubakar was the hero for the Indomitable Lions once again as they picked up a shock 1-0 win over tournament favourites Brazil in their Group G clash at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Following up his heroics against Serbia, Aboubakar did not disappoint against Brazil.

After securing wins against Serbia and Switzerland, Brazil had secured a place in the last 16 with a game to spare. Cameroun, on the other hand, needed an improbable win over the South American giants to stand a chance of making it out of the group stage.

Brazil manager Tite started without most of his regulars, making wholesale changes to his starting XI for the game. Even with the weakened lineup, Brazil dominated proceedings from the first whistle. It was all Brazil throughout the match before Cameroun delivered a reminder of the threat they possess in first half added time. A cross from Moumi Ngamaleu was headed into the ground by Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, and Ederson was forced into an outstanding save.

The second half was similar to the first in terms of Brazilian dominance, with Cameroun goalkeeper Devis Epassy called into action several times, and the woodwork saving the African side severally. Cameroun remained in the game, with Olivier Ntcham and Vincent Aboubakar producing decent efforts.

With the game nearing its conclusion, the Africans delivered a stunning sucker punch in added time. Substitute Jerome Ngom Mbekeli delivered a peach of a cross which was met by the head of Aboubakar, who directed his effort past a stranded Ederson. The 30-year-old ripped off his shirt as he celebrated becoming the first player to score against Brazil at this World Cup. Having picked up a yellow card earlier, he was shown a second yellow card and subsequently sent off.

Cameroun held on to pick up a brilliant win over Brazil, becoming the first African side ever to defeat the Seleçao at the FIFA World Cup. The Indomitable Lions, however, did not make it out of their group as Switzerland defeated Serbia 3-2 to finish with six points to Cameroun’s four.