Embolo, the man born in Cameroon who gave Switzerland a vital victory and didn’t shout the goal out of respect for his roots

“If I score, I’ll try not to celebrate.” Breel Donald Embolo’s words in the Switzerland-Cameroon preview were an omen. And he complied. Because 3 minutes into the second half, the African-born striker was tasked with scoring the goal that gave the Europeans a vital victory at the start of Group G of the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Key, because the Swiss must meet again at the next appointment with the always candidate Brazil. And they close the area with Serbia, another one that promises to fight.

For this reason, the departure was crucial for those led by Murat Yakin who they started out as clear rulers of the game.

The high pressure in attack forced Cameroon to go out with long balls. However, heThe Africans take advantage of this retreat and go for the bank relying on the speed of his vehicles and the solitary Choupo-Moting. Thus, Yann Sommer’s arc, which has always responded well, has disturbed on more than one occasion.

Already in the second half the Africans came up with another position and played him a bad joke: they pressed hard and paid dearly. In just 3 minutes, the inspired Granit Xhaka – English Arsenal captain and figure – recovers in midfield and sees only Remo Freuler in the center.

The Swiss number 8 saw the ever-moving Xherdan Shaqiri pass on the right and at speed, who received the ball and didn’t hesitate. Flush center so that the center of the small area appears without the Embolo mark. At 7 bravo it was enough to push with his right foot to break the tie.

Moved, he stopped and raised his hands. That was his first reaction. Out of respect for his roots, the man born in Yaoundé -the capital of Cameroon- did not shout the goal. It was mixed feelings for the 25-year-old young striker who, almost unwittingly, was tasked with ruining the Indomitable Lions’ illusion.

At the next round, Switzerland will face five-time champions from Brazil. It will be Sunday, from 7 in Argentina. Africans will play a lot against Serbia and almost their future at the World Cup. It will be the same day, 1pm.