Ten-man Cameroon out of World Cup despite stunning win over Brazil

Cameroon’s hope of progressing into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in 32 years hinged on a victory against five times champions Brazil, who made nine changes after qualifying early from a record 10th consecutive group stage with a late 1-0 win over Switzerland.

The rotated Seleção side quickly set about maintaining their 100% winning streak in Group G when Fred floated a cross towards Gabriel Martinelli and the forward’s header was tipped over by Devis Epassy.

The chance did little to deter a Cameroon side that set their sights on winning a final World Cup group stage match for the first-time ever and Nouhou Tolo’s powerful cross kept Ederson on high alert as the ‘keeper diverted the attempt. Despite seeing little of the ball, Cameroon nearly led at half time as Bryan Mbeumo became the first player to get a shot on target against Brazil in Group G when his header was palmed away by Ederson.

The late chances gave Cameroon confidence and the recalled Vincent Aboubakar fired a first time shot across goal inches wide. But having scored all three of their World Cup goals after half time, Brazil were soon applying the pressure and Martinelli's curled effort was palmed over the crossbar once again by Epassy. Both sides had half chances late on and Cameroon eventually struck the final blow when Aboubakar headed in Jerome Mbekeli’s cross only to be sent off for a second bookable offence by removing his shirt in the celebrations.

Cameroon produced a valiant display to defeat a second string, yet still talented, Brazil and the victory was not enough to prevent the Indomitable Lions’ early World Cup exit. Brazil rarely threatened and looked disjointed in defeat, although Tite’s decision to rest key players could prove fruitful in the knockout rounds.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Vincent Aboubakar (Cameroon)