Cameroon boss Song rues exit despite win
Cameroon manager Rigobert Song said he was proud of his players ater a historic 1-0 victory over Brazil in their World Cup Group G match on Friday.
A stoppage-time header from Vincent Aboubakar gave the Indomitable Lions the first ever win by an African team over Brazil at the World Cup.
But it wasn’t enough to earn Cameroon a place in the knockout stage in Qatar as they finished third in their group, behind Brazil and Switzerland, reports Xinhua.
“We have a feeling of regret because this match showed that we could have done beter in the first two games,” said Song, referring to a 3-3 draw with Serbia and a 1-0 loss to Switzerland.
“But you have to look at the positive side. We’re satisfied with tonight’s performance. I took over the team not that long ago and we’re progressing.
“I’m proud of my players. We’re trying to get across the Lions’ spirt. We’ve shown that we can be a good team and now we have to make sure that we keep improving.”
He admited he wasn’t initially aware of the magnitude of his team’s achievement.
“I didn’t even realise it was such a historic victory. My players should be congratulated and they’ve shown they could have done better [earlier in the tournament]. It’s a shame we have to go home now but we are going to keep working so that we improve.”
Brazil head coach Tite said he took the blame for Brazil’s surprise 1-0 defeat to Cameroon.
Tite made nine changes to the team that beat Switzerland on Monday but denied he lacked respect against the African side.
“We were very wary about the threat posed by Cameroon,” Tite said. “They won the match on merit. They played very well vertically.
“We weren’t effective and the game became more dangerous as it progressed. Who lost? All of us (in the Brazil camp). I am responsible for everything that happens.”
Brazil had 65 per cent of possession and 21 shots on goal at Lusail stadium compared to Cameroon’s seven atempts, reports Xinhua.
But the five-time world champions were unable to capitalize on their chances and paid the price for their profligacy when Vincent Aboubakar headed in the winner in the 92nd minute.
Tite vowed his team would show utmost respect for South Korea, their next opponents in the round of 16.
“Every match is difficult. We can’t take any opponent lightly,” he said. “The World Cup doesn’t give you second chances. We will feel disappointed for 24 hours after this result and then we’ll start preparing for the next match.”