Amid torrential rain, Mexico wins 1-0 versus Cameroon

NATAL, Brazil – Oribe Peralta scored in the second half to help Mexico to a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in torrential rain Friday, earning El Tri their first World Cup win over an African team and giving them a crucial three points in Group A.

Peralta’s left-foot shot in the 61st minute justified coach Miguel Herrera’s decision to start him ahead of striker Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, arguably Mexico’s best known player.

Get breaking National news

Get breaking Canada news delivered to your inbox as it happens so you won't miss a trending story.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Get Started

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

SEE MORE: Pool standings and match results

Giovanni Dos Santos had two goals disallowed in a frustrating first half, when Samuel Eto’o hit the post for Cameroon.

Peralta broke the deadlock just as thousands of Mexican fans were cheering for Hernandez to come into the game. He swooped after Cameroon goalkeeper Charles Itandje parried a shot by Dos Santos.