TheCable

Day nine saw Casemiro’s late strike take Brazil to the knockout round of the 2022 FIFA World Cup as they snatched a 1-0 victory over Switzerland at Stadium 974.

Bruno Fernandes also netted a brace as Portugal defeated Uruguay 2-0 and secured a spot in the last 16.

In an entertaining encounter at the Education City Stadium, Mohammed Kudus ended South Korea’s valiant turnaround attempt as Ghana won 3-2 to set up a clash against Uruguay.

Here are four major talking points from Day 9.

Super sub Aboubakar

Many had criticised Cameroon boss Rigobert Song for starting Vincent Aboubakar from the bench.

But it paid off on Monday as the former Porto striker woke the sleeping Indomitable Lions against Serbia in a game that ended 3-3.

Casemiro rescues Brazil

It took the Selecao a late goal from Casemiro for the win against a dogged Swiss side. The midfielder scored the solitary goal for the five-time champions in the 83rd minute with a stunning finish.

Brazil now have six points which means they have already assured themselves a spot in the next round with a game in hand. Switzerland are second in the group with three points ahead of Cameroon and Serbia, both of whom are on 1 point each.

Kudus Mohammed gives Ghana a lifeline

The star of Ghana’s 3-2 win over South Korea was Ajax Amsterdam winger Kudus who registered a brace and won the man of the match award.

Kudus tormented the defence line of the Taeguk Warriors and also increased Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the next round.

Two-star Bruno ‘takes’ Ronaldo’s shine

The focus has been on free agent Cristiano Ronaldo but his international teammate Fernandes chose Monday to be in the spotlight.

In the 2-0 win over Uruguay, Ronaldo thought he had given Portugal the lead but the goal was eventually awarded to Fernandes who provided the cross.

The Manchester United midfielder went on to score the second goal from a penalty that he had won.