Some few hours to the publication of the list of Cameroon’s pre-selected players for the world cup, some home-based players are keeping their fingers crossed as Paul Le Guen lets the cat out of the bag this Tuesday in the nation’s capital, Yaoundé at 12.00 GMT.
In prelude to this camp, the head coach held a one week training camp with home-based players to pick out talents that could integrate the national team for the world cup. Though the major attraction will be to know who makes the final squad, anxiety is building up within some of the local players concerned.
Interviewed this Sunday after the game between Yong Sports Academy of Bamenda and Astres of Douala, Astres right back defender, Mabouka Massoussi Olivier sounded cool and patient as he hopes to make the trip. ” I have no worries at the moment…I take part in all my club’s training session as usual and make sure I give the best of myself. It is now the trainer’s decision to decide if my best is enough to make. But as any professional player eyeing success, I think it is a great achievement to take part at the final phase of the most prestigious competition. But the ball is no more in my court…” Mabouka frankly declared after a disappointing draw.
Equally his team mate, Abouna Ndzana who was serving a one-match ban did not sound worried but however affirmed the pressure and nervousness building on him. If many analysts tip him to be Paul Le Guen’s first choice amateur, the youngster still gives a chance to all his mates in contention. ” Do you think those who took part in the training session were there by luck? No I think they were observed and merited to be there so all the chances are fifty–fifty, it can be A as well as B. Let’s just wait and see” responded Abouna in serious tone.
Both players first burst to the national and International scene when they were handed a surprise call-up by Cameroon’s head coach, Paul Le Guen for the goalless Friendly against Italy. But only Abouna could make his debut with the Lions as he was handed the last fifteen minutes of the game by the head coach to prove his critics wrong. Ever since he made his remarkable debut with less impact, he has been tipped as the home-based player to battle for a ticket for the South African challenge.
However, some names have emerged in recent days as speculations are high that Cotonsport’s Aboubakar Vincent as well as Canon’s Patrick Mevoungou equally stand a chance.
