With series of surprises at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Brazil, one of Africa’s representatives, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroun will be walking a long rope in the quest to progress in the tournament. The team will square up against top favourites and host, Brazil, in its last Group A match.
Brazil’s talisman, Neymar
The match is billed for Monday, June 23, with the Selecao knowing that a victory in Brasilia will finally secure it a place in the knockout phase.
Brazil 2014 has witnessed surprises such as the routing of defending champion, Spain, by Netherlands (5-1) and Chile (2-1). That ends the campaign of the European and world champion in Brazil – its last match with Australia on Monday is of mere formality. Also, Uruguay lost 1-3 to Costa Rica while Cote d’Ivoire beat Japan 2-1 among others.
“In football, anything is possible because it is not over until it is over. We will go into the match as if it is our opening game and give it our very best, hoping and willing to spring another surprise in the ongoing Mundial,” said Samuel Eto of Cameroun.
Brazil coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, said his team will not take the match lightly in order to keep up its dream of winning the trophy at the end of the tournament.
The Selecao struggled to break down the Mexican backline at the Castelao Stadium, and when it did, it came undone against inspired goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, who made three stunning saves, two to deny Neymar and one from a late Thiago Silva header.
But Scolari was bullish in front of the press, emphasising that Brazil remains on course to qualify for the round of 16, with the Mexico draw following its opening 3-1 win against Croatia in Sao Paulo.
