Group C of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign ends with a meeting between Cameroon and Burundi at Stade Omnisport Roumde Adjia this evening, with the home side desperate for a win.
Although a draw will be enough to see them through, the Indomitable Lions will aim to win to secure their 21st appearance at AFCON as Group C winners.
The Indomitable Lions would win the group with 7 points if they beat Burundi again tonight, after their 0-1 away win against their visitors, 1-1 draw, and 2-1 defeat to Namibia.
With both Cameroon and Burundi tied on four points, a high-scoring draw of more than four goals would see both teams qualify, while Nambia would be out of the race.
Song not underrating Burundi
Despite their opponents’ current run of just one away victory since 2020, head coach Rigobert Song is not taking anything for granted.
“We are aware of what is at stake. Burundi is a good side, and we are also aiming for what they want, which is to qualify,” he said.
Song hinted at a press conference that Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana, who announced his retirement after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, could start for Cameroon tonight after being recalled.
“At the last press conference here, I said that it was up to him to do the needful. He [Onana] knew what he had to do. He is a top goalkeeper and will be key for Cameroon,” the coach said.
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Song will rely on a star-studded squad comprising Vincent Aboubakar, who has scored 22 times this year for Beskitas in all competitions.
Others include Brentford Midfielder Bryan Mbeumo, Bayern Munich’s Eric Choupo-Moting, and Karl Toko Ekambi, who plays for Ahba football club in the Saudi Pro League.
