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What happened
China’s approach to this game was simple; wear the brute
strength of the Cameroonians and then use their skill advantage to out play
them. It worked perfectly as the Chinese passed around their African opponents
regularly, and after going up from a corner in the 12th minute they
were able to repel the chances that Cameroon produced while still creating chances
from counter attacks.
The Cameroonians went into the break with a number of shots
under the belt, but none threatened and the second-half heroics of the last
group game couldn’t be repeated. More shots from distance, more inaccurate
passing and resolute Chinese defending were the insurmountable factors for
Cameroon, and a one-nil loss has them packing their bags.
Stand out performers
Small Chinese midfielder Han Peng was a major factor in her
side’s victory in the Round of 16, leading the charge with a number of counter
attacks. Her crossing was another feature as she constantly found unmarked
strikers at the back post. For the entire 90 minutes Cameroon were unable to
answer the questions she asked of them, and if the strikers had been able to
finish the chances she created, the one goal win could have easily been two or
three.
Talking points
Both sides’ performance in the final third left a lot to be
desired, with a number of chances squandered because of ordinary finishing.
Cameroon belted a majority of the shots they had into the stands, while China’s
Wang Shanshan was unable to capitalise on one-on-one situations twice in the
second half.
What it means
For China a date awaits with the winner of the USA vs.
Colombia, while Cameroon’s squad are on the next flight back to Yaounde.
Needs work
China has to do something about the finishing it had in
display in Edmonton, with a number of chances to score being squandered. The trepidation
they showed in front of goal – particularly in one-on-ones – has to be
addressed before their quarter final tie, because against better sides those
chances won’t come as often.
What next
China will play either the USA or Colombia in the quarter
final. The USA will be a much tougher ask than the Colombians, so there’s no
doubt the Chinese will be cheering the South Americans on Tuesday.
Goal of the match
In what was an extraordinarily tough choice, this award goes
to the only goal of the day, scored by Wang Shanshan in the 12th
minute. In what was an obviously rehearsed set piece, the corner flew to the
far post and was then cut back in to Shanshan who was waiting unmarked on the
penalty spot. Her volley was too good for Ngo Ndom.
Miss of the match
Shanshan wins this one too. Twice she found herself with
just the keeper to beat after strong Chinese counter attacks, and twice she
inexplicably stopped to allow defenders to meet her. Both her shots went limp
and wide, and she’ll be a relieved woman having manages to get the win in spite
of her mistakes.