Italy 3 Cameroon 0

June 17, 1998
Wldcup.com

This match was a real contest until the 42nd minute when referee Lennie sent off Cameroon defender Kalla for a two footed challenge on Di Biaggio.

Already a goal behind the Africans were unable to get back into the match and Italy in the end were comfortable winners.

After taking the lead in the 9th minute though the game changed and Cameroon took control with Olembe and Ndo combiining well in midfield. A Roberto Baggio freekick was headed into the net by Di Biagio to give the Italians the perfect start but for the rest of the half the game looked as if it would be another occassion when their control slipped. Vieri's willing running always looked likely to create some chances but he lacked support until well into the second half.

In the absence of Kalla Italy did not begin the second half strongly but the lack of a full side gradually told on a spirited Cameroon side. The defence was exposed by Moriero in the 75th minute with a good run through the middle that allowed Vieri to get clear on the right and receiving the ball in space on the edge of the area he struck the ball over Songo'o into the far corner of the net. Del Piero came on for Roberto Baggio ten minutes before this and he looked fit and almost scored with a Chippo in the 78th minute. The game was concluded by Del Piero causing confusion in the Cameroon defence and Vieri muscling his way between Wome and the goalkeeper to hit the net.
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