Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions took on the challenge of Senegal’s Terranga Lions and failed woefully at it as Africa’s most fearsome and vociferous lion roared into the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations with a dominant win.
The defending champions made it two wins from two games as goals from Ismail Sarr, Habib Diallo, and Sadio Mane ensured Senegal advanced to the knockout stages.
Cameroon, five-time continental champions, have a point from two games and will most likely need to win their final group tie against The Gambia to stand a chance of progression into the knockout stages.
Of intrigue ahead of the match was the return of goalkeeper, Andre Onana in goal for Cameroon, having missed their 1-1 draw against Guinea on Monday after deciding to play for Manchester United in the Premier League 24 hours earlier.
The somewhat controversial 27-year-old was arguably at fault for Senegal’s opener when his clearing punch from a corner was headed back into the box by Pape Matar Sarr and forward Ismaila Sarr fired into the bottom right-hand corner.
Although Cameroon has been plagued with injuries such as the loss of influential striker, Vincent Aboubakar and Karl Toko Ekambi dropping to the bench, defensively there are worrying signs.
Perhaps more worrisome is the team’s last line of defence, Andre Onana, who has conceded over fifty goals over the last five and a half months for club and country.
Although the bulk of the goals is not down to his errors, the stats do not depict a goalkeeper high on confidence or in form.
Cameroonian legend and coach, Rigobert Song will have to guide the Indomitable Lions past the injury woes bedeviling them as they prepare for a tricky test from The Gambia.
On the flip side, Senegalese legend and coach, Aliou Cisse, who guided the Teranga Lions to their first Afcon title two years ago, has the daunting task of guiding Senegal to a historic repeat of the 2021 heroics.
Who can tame Africa’s most fearsome and vociferous Lion?
