World Cup: Yaounde-born Embolo Gives Switzerland Narrow Win over Cameroon

Switzerland secured a 1-0 win over Cameroon at the opening match of group G Qatar World Cup on Thursday.

Breel Embolo, a Cameroon-born Swiss striker, scored the only goal of the match for the Swiss at the Al Janoub Stadium.

Cameroon (drawn three, lost three) has now failed to win any of their opening World Cup matches since François Omam-Biyik scored in a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the opening game of the 1990 tournament.

Switzerland, on the other hand, remains unbeaten in its first World Cup match going back across six tournaments. 

In Wednesday’s match, Embolo scored the winning goal for Switzerland in a hard-fought Group G opener.

The striker rounded off a free-flowing move in the 48th minute, sweeping home a low cross from Xherdan Shaqiri, but opted for a muted celebration given his connection to the African nation.

The goal rocked Cameroon and the Swiss had chances to extend their lead, only for Andre Onana to save superbly from Ruben Vargas, while Embolo and substitute Haris Seferovic were denied by last-ditch defending.

The Indomitable Lions were unfortunate to lose after an enterprising display and creating chances with Eric Choupo-Moting, Bryan Mbeumo, and Martin Hongla all missing presentable opportunities.

Cameroon will play its next game against Serbia while Switzerland faces group favorites Brazil on Monday.

Featured Image Caption: Embolo refused to celebrate and respectfully raised his arms when he scored shortly after half-time. [Photo Credit FIFA]