Without star striker Samuel Eto'o, it was already an uphill battle
for the Cameroonians. Then Alex Song was given a red card in the first
half, forcing them to face a hungry Croatia squad with just 10 men.And Croatia took full advantage.
It was mostly target practice for the Croats, who seemingly lived in the Cameroon box. Mario Mandzukic was back with a vengeance -- he was forced to sit the first game due to two yellow cards in the qualifiers -- scoring two goals.
Now the real challenge begins for Croatia. A win next week against Mexico, who has not yet been scored upon, will give them a spot in the knockout stage. And, thanks to their four goals today, a tie would get them through in the event Cameroon beats Brazil -- which will probably not happen, but still.
So it's pretty clear-cut for Croatia: Beat Mexico and you're through.
The blow-by-blow of Wednesday's game is below.
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89' -- It's just not gonna happen. Cameroon with a great chance, but Webo's header rings the post. And Cameroon's players are fighting. Let's just go home.
88' -- Rakitic has a go for Croatia but his chip rolls wide.
85' -- Awwww. Cameroon's best chance of the night, but Moukandjo's shot sails just wide.
83' -- Croatia not letting up, but they've been unable to convert on any of their numerous recent chances. End this thing already.
73' -- Goal, Croatia. Some fancy footwork on the edge sets up a shot, and Mandzukic is there to bang home the rebound. It has gotten ugly
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