Cameroon defeats Brazil thanks to Aboubakar’s goal
For a long time, it seemed that the second team from Brazil would beat the fierce team from Cameroon. United midfielder Fred was the catalyst for many of Brazil’s chances, sending numerous shots and crosses into the Cameroonian goal.
Gabriel Martinelli was also a big problem for Cameroon in the first half. The Arsenal star pushed Napoli’s Andre-Frank Zambo and Al Taee’s Collins Fai into superhuman defending performances.
Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo’s header nearly put Cameroon on top, were it not for an incredible save by Ederson. It was the first shot on goal that Brazil had to face in the entire group stage. However, Cameroon once again had to wait for another great opportunity.
However, for the most part it was the same old story. The Seleçao were the attacking team, and Cameroon held on with all their might.
Most of the second half became a How many chances can Brazil lose the competition. There was a shout from Antony on the edge of the box that Epassy deflected away, and Epassy struggled to deflect an effort from Éder Militão onto the post.
Things got even worse with the appearance of Marquinhos, Bruno Guimaraes and Raphinha. It took some herculean efforts from the Cameroon and Epassy defense to keep the game level. Cameroon fans weren’t praying for a win and draw between Serbia and Switzerland. They prayed that their likely defeat against Brazil would be minimal.
Say hello to Aboubakar
However, Cameroon received an unexpected boost in the 92nd minute. Cameroon’s champion, the epitome of efficiency and Yaoundé’s hero: Vincent Aboubakar saved the Indomitable Lions once again.
Local talent Jerome Mbekeli made his way to the wing and sent a perfect cross past a heavily marked Aboubakar. The Al-Nassr striker ran into the box, knocked out two defenders and headed a frozen Ederson. He yelled, stripped off his shirt, left it behind, and headed for the dugout. He faced his teammates with a stunned but proud look on his face.
Although removing his shirt earned Aboubakar his second yellow card, he won the game over Cameroon. The stoppage-time winner gave Cameroon their fourth point in Qatar. Sadly, Serbia couldn’t tie Switzerland in the kill, meaning Switzerland would get second place and a game against Portugal.
Epassy impresses against Brazil attack
Devis Epassy is not André Onana. Yet in front of over 85,000 fans expecting to see a one-sided massacre, Epassy gave the performance of a lifetime. He had seven saves and 52 bunts. The Abha goalkeeper faced 21 shots and 2.25 xG, but surprisingly kept a clean sheet.
He bounced back impressively after conceding three goals to Serbia on just 1.9 xG, and showed a level of maturity you wouldn’t expect from someone who has just won his sixth cap for Cameroon.
As the bridge between Onana and Cameroon continues to grow, Epassy can look forward to more minutes before qualifying for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Photo credit: IMAGO/Xinhua
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