Brazil secured their place in the last 16 of the World Cup with a 4-2 victory over already eliminated Cameroon in a Group A match on Tuesday. Barcelona forward Neymar scored two goals, sending the hosts through to the next stage.
Brazil ultimately progressed comfortably, with Fred and substitute Fernandinho adding further goals after the interval to secure a last-16 tie against fellow South Americans Chile. Mexico won against Croatia in Group A’s other closing fixture but failed to make up a goal-difference deficit, allowing the hosts to retain top spot.
Playing in their 100th World Cup match, Brazil needed at least a draw to advance. The five-time world champions, playing at home, have advanced to the second round in every tournament since 1970.
A crowd of nearly 69,112 at the Estadio Nacional in the nation’s capital boosted Brazil, who began the match pressuring Cameroon and created many scoring chances early. However, the African team eventually picked up the pace and kept the hosts from threatening too much.
Despite playing without Samuel Eto’o due to a lingering right knee injury, Cameroon had a few good chances, even when the match was level in the first half. It was Neymar who got on the board first, neatly finding the net after Gustavo stole the ball on the left flank and sent a low cross into the area.
Cameroon equalized after a nice run by Allan Nyom ended with Matip’s goal, but Neymar again showed his importance, running toward the area and then moving to his right in front of a couple of defenders before firing a low shot into the net.
The 22-year-old Barcelona striker had already been decisive in the 3-1 opening win over Croatia, when he also scored twice while Brazil was struggling. Brazil improved in the second half, and Fred, who had been criticized for his lacklustre performances, got his first goal of the tournament with a header from close range after a cross by defender David Luiz from the left.
Cameroon players complained of offside, but the goal stood. Fernandinho, who replaced Paulinho in the second half, closed the scoring after Oscar stole possession from a Cameroon defender near the area. Quick passes by Fred and Oscar set up the midfielder’s toe poke from short range.
