In the lead-up to the highly anticipated Round of 16 clash between Cameroon and Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Cameroon’s head coach, Rigobert Song, has quashed any suggestions of a rift within his team regarding the goalkeeping position.
Following his decision to bench Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana in favor of Fabrice Ondoa during Cameroon’s 3-2 victory against Gambia, Song found himself at the center of speculation regarding his goalkeeping choices. However, the former West Ham United defender was quick to dispel any notion of discord within the team, emphasizing the depth of quality in the goalkeeping department.
“Cameroon is a country which has always had great goalkeepers, today we also have two good goalkeepers,” Song said. “We can share playing time between them. I don’t have a problem with my goalkeepers. All my goalies are competitive. I came with 27 players, and everyone is ready to step up. There is no controversy between, they get along very well and then the choices are made.”
Song’s assurance of unity and competition within the team serves to put to rest any concerns over the goalkeeper selection, as Cameroon gears up to face their long-standing rivals, Nigeria.
As the two African football powerhouses prepare to go head-to-head on Saturday, Song’s remarks convey a sense of solidarity and determination within the Cameroonian camp, serving as a testament to the team’s readiness to take on the challenges of the knockout stages.
With Song’s clarification, all eyes will now turn to the eagerly awaited encounter between Cameroon and Nigeria, with fans eagerly anticipating a thrilling showdown between the continental giants.
