HERO EMBOLO IS STILL ON SONG
No grudge from Cameroon’s boss after pal dashes hopes
CAMEROON manager Rigobert Song hailed Breel Embolo despite the Switzerland star leaving his side’s World Cup dream in jeopardy.
The striker, who was born in the African nation, netted the only goal in the 48th minute after a pinpoint delivery from Xherdan Shaqiri and celebrated in a low-key fashion.
But Song does not hold a grudge despite his side now facing a huge fight to qualify for the knockout stage. “We know each other, he is my little brother,” he said.
“We often speak to each other on the phone and I wanted to congratulate him. It is fair play to do so. Just because we are on different teams, it does not mean we are not still brothers.” Song did admit that he wished Embolo had chosen to play for Cameroon instead.
“He is with the Swiss national team and I would have liked him to be on my side, but that is the way of life,” he added.
Switzerland manager Murat Yakin was happy that Embolo was able to put his emotions to one side, hailing the attacker for his ruthless display.
He said: “You’ve got an opponent, of course he wants to score for his team and he fulfilled his task, so we are really happy.”
Yann Sommer proved to be an immovable object between the sticks, however, with the Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper making five saves over the
KEY MAN: Embolo sealed Swiss win course of the 90 minutes to secure his side victory. Eric Choupo-Moting, who has been in inspired form for Bayern Munich this season, saw two efforts parried away by the World Cup veteran. Martin Hongla also had a good opportunity. After Embolo’s goal, Switzerland were in cruise control and were able to secure victory with relative ease.
SWITZERLAND (4-3-3):