Cameroon and Serbia, two Group G opponents who both suffered defeats in their opening matches of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, meet on Monday at Al-Janoub Stadium for a pivotal match. While the Indomitable Lions were tamed by Switzerland on Thursday afternoon, their European counterparts suffered at the hands of pundits' favourites Brazil; losing 2-0 despite keeping them at bay for an hour. Both now face an almost win-or-bust scenario in Al Wakrah. Cameroon was able to hold them off in the first half of their Group G opener against higher-ranked opponents, but a goal from Yaounde-born Breel Embolo in the 48th minute was the game-winner for Switzerland.

As a result, the West African nation are still seeking their first victory at the World Cup since 2002, when current Cameroonian Football Federation president Samuel Eto'o was the last player to net a winner for his country on the global stage. After their first-day setback, they have also lost eight World Cup matches in a row, so will now be eager to avoid equalling Mexico's unwanted record of nine in that regard.  Cameroon finished third in this year's African Cup of Nations (AFCON) competitions that was held in their home country. Rigobert Song's side, who qualified for Qatar in dramatic style by pipping Algeria to the post, arrived in the Middle East as the fourth-lowest ranked team to feature at this year's finals, so are realistic about their prospects. 

However, the five-time African champions must at least avoid another defeat on Monday if they hope to continue their journey into the knockout rounds. In the event that Brazil and Switzerland draw, their season would be over early, leaving them with little to play for in their last group matchup against the heavily favored Brazilians. It was Brazil who left Serbia pointless after their opening fixture at Lusail Stadium on Thursday, as the two nations reproduced the same result as when they met in Russia four years ago - a 2-0 victory for Brazil. Richarlison was the star of the night as he ensured what happened in Russia four years ago was again repeated in Qatar. Having crashed out at the group stage in their three previous finals appearances since gaining independence, Serbia have now lost eight of their 10 World Cup matches in total - the most defeats by any European nation.

Serbia impressed in qualifying though as they topped their group ahead of Portugal. This gives them hope of turning things around and reaching the knockout phase for the first time ever. They might also draw inspiration from the fact that they were promoted to the top tier of the UEFA Nations League earlier this year. 

The game might end up in a barren draw of 0-0 scores.

(Image: Khel now)