Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has been named in Cameroon’s provisional squad for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where they are set to face Kenya’s Harambee Stars. Onana, along with Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, will play a pivotal role in the two matches that are crucial for Cameroon’s chances of advancing in the tournament. These games mark an important chapter in Cameroon’s qualifying campaign, as both teams will be battling for dominance in Group J.
The first of the two encounters between Cameroon and Kenya is scheduled for October 11 at the Japoma Sports Complex in Douala, Cameroon. This home match will give Cameroon an advantage, with their fans rallying behind them in what is expected to be an intense battle. The second match will take place on October 14, tentatively in Uganda, where Kenya will be hosting the return leg. Both sides are keen on securing as many points as possible in these two fixtures, as qualification for AFCON 2025 becomes more competitive.
The announcement of Cameroon’s squad came through an unconventional method that surprised many. Head coach Marc Brys made the announcement during a live television broadcast on the sports show “Fou Fou Foot,” a popular program on CRTV. The move, while innovative, sparked discussions among fans and pundits alike. Some questioned the lack of a formal press release or press conference, as is typically the case for such important announcements. However, it seems that Brys was eager to use the platform to engage with fans directly, allowing for more transparency in his selection process. This decision has generated mixed reactions, with some fans appreciating the bold approach, while others felt it lacked the decorum expected from such a major announcement.
Despite the mixed reception, the squad selection has been a topic of much discussion, particularly with the inclusion of Andre Onana. Onana’s return to the national team has been a major talking point in recent months, especially after his temporary withdrawal from international duties following the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His decision to return to the national setup has been welcomed by many Cameroonian fans who view him as a key asset for the team, especially given his stellar performances in club football with Manchester United.
In addition to Onana, several other key players have been included in the provisional squad. Bryan Mbeumo, one of the standout performers for Brentford in the English Premier League, is another crucial inclusion. Mbeumo has been in fine form for his club and will be expected to carry that momentum into the international stage. Alongside him, Cameroon’s experienced captain Vincent Aboubakar and dynamic midfielder André-Frank Zambo Anguissa will provide leadership and stability on the field. Both players have been instrumental in Cameroon’s recent successes and will be looking to continue their form in the upcoming qualifiers.
However, not all of Cameroon’s seasoned players have made it into the provisional squad. Notably, Jean-Charles Castelletto, a defender for FC Nantes, has been left out of the squad due to an injury sustained during the previous training camp. Although he has since returned to action for his club, his omission has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. Castelletto’s absence, along with other injuries, has paved the way for new talent to be introduced into the squad. The likes of Yann Bisseck, who plays for Inter Milan, and Eric Dina Ebimbe from Eintracht Frankfurt have received their first call-ups to the national team. These young players will be eager to prove themselves on the international stage and could play a vital role in the team’s future.
The provisional squad features a balance of experience and youth, with six new faces included alongside established players. This blend of seasoned professionals and emerging talents will be crucial as Cameroon prepares for the high-stakes matches against Kenya. The inclusion of new players also highlights Brys’ intent to build a squad with depth and flexibility, qualities that will be essential as the team navigates the challenges of AFCON qualification.
Cameroon’s preparation for the qualifiers comes at a time of turmoil within their football administration. On the same day as the squad announcement, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee imposed a six-month ban on Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT). The suspension prevents Eto’o from attending any matches involving the national teams, a decision that has caused considerable unrest within Cameroonian football circles. Eto’o, a legendary figure in African football, has been a controversial figure since taking up his role at FECAFOOT. His suspension adds to the chaotic situation surrounding the national team and raises questions about how this administrative turmoil might impact the team’s performance on the field.
Eto’o’s absence during these crucial qualifiers will be felt, as he has been a significant presence in the national team’s setup since taking over as president. His leadership and experience as a former player have been seen as vital in guiding the team through challenging moments. However, the team must now focus on the task at hand without his direct involvement. The players and coaching staff will need to remain focused on their objectives as they prepare for the crucial matches ahead.
Despite the off-field distractions, Cameroon remains determined to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON. The matches against Kenya represent a significant hurdle, but they also offer an opportunity for Cameroon to assert their dominance in the group. Kenya, under the management of head coach Engin Firat, will not be an easy opponent. The Harambee Stars have shown considerable improvement in recent years and are eager to make their mark on the continental stage. With players like Michael Olunga and Kenneth Muguna leading their charge, Kenya will be looking to challenge Cameroon’s defense and create an upset.
Cameroon’s strength lies in their solid defensive setup, anchored by experienced players like Harold Moukoudi and Michael Ngadeu. Their defensive resilience will be tested by Kenya’s attack, and it will be up to Onana to organize his defense and ensure that Cameroon remains impenetrable at the back. Onana’s ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations will be invaluable, and his leadership from the back will be crucial in maintaining Cameroon’s defensive structure.
In midfield, the presence of André-Frank Zambo Anguissa is a massive boost for Cameroon. The Napoli midfielder has been in outstanding form for his club, and his ability to control the tempo of the game will be essential in dictating the flow of play against Kenya. Alongside him, the likes of Martin Hongla and Pierre Kunde will provide additional support in midfield, ensuring that Cameroon can dominate possession and create chances for their forwards.
In attack, Vincent Aboubakar remains Cameroon’s talisman. The veteran striker has a proven track record of delivering in crucial matches and will be relied upon to lead the line against Kenya. His physical presence and ability to hold up the ball will be vital in bringing other attacking players like Bryan Mbeumo and Christian Bassogog into play. Mbeumo’s pace and dribbling ability will be a key weapon for Cameroon, particularly in counter-attacking situations, while Bassogog’s flair and creativity will provide a different dimension to their attack.
As the countdown to the qualifiers begins, Cameroon will be keen to fine-tune their strategies during their training camp. The final squad is expected to be confirmed in the coming days, with the coaching staff closely monitoring the players’ fitness and form ahead of the matches. The team will need to be at their best to overcome a determined Kenyan side and secure their place in the next phase of AFCON qualification.
In summary, Cameroon’s squad for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Kenya is a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. Andre Onana and Bryan Mbeumo headline the list, but the squad also includes several other key players who will be crucial in determining the team’s success. Despite the administrative challenges posed by Samuel Eto’o’s suspension, the focus remains on the field as Cameroon prepares for two important fixtures in their quest for AFCON glory.
