While it looked more and more like the game, held in Saitama, Japan, would end in goose eggs, Cameroon's Samuel Etoo showed that talent can win games, finishing off a superb long-ball by tapping it with the side of his foot that was just enough to slither by Saudi Arabian goalkeeper Mohammed Al Deayea. The goal was scored in the 66th minute of the second half.

The Saudis played much more aggressive and were more resilient than in their previous match, at times causing Cameroon, who were expected to easily dispatch of the Saudis, fits for most of the first half. Nawaf Al Temyat was especially noticeable in the field, ending the match with eight attempted shots.

Cameroon and Saudi Arabia played tight football in the second half, and both teams seemed tentative with the ball at times, perhaps all too well aware that one goal would decide their fate. The Saudis' fate were sealed in the end, earning the dubious honor of becoming the first team to be officially eliminated from the finals. Saudi next takes on the Republic of Ireland June 11.

Cameroon now has a share of the top spot of Group E with Germany, whom Cameroon plays next on the same day. Both teams have four points. (Glen Choi, glen@chosun.com )