AFCON 2023: Andre Onana Completes First Training With Cameroon, Likely to Start Against Senegal

• Andre Onana joined his Cameroon teammates to train for the first time since his arrival
• The 27-year-old missed his side's opening AFCON game against Guinea on January 15
• He is likely to start for the five-time African champions in their big clash against Senegal

Abidjan- Côte d’Ivoire. Andre Onana has successfully participated in his inaugural training session with the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon after joining the squad late for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Onana's belated arrival caused him to miss Cameroon's initial group-stage encounter against Guinea, resulting in a 1-1 draw despite the numerical advantage gained after Francois Kamano's dismissal.

The former Ajax Amsterdam goalkeeper found himself at the centre of controversy as the Cameroon FA reluctantly negotiated with Manchester United, granting Onana permission for a delayed arrival due to club commitments.

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Reports suggest that the 27-year-old, anticipating a starting position in the first game, had to be reassured by Senegalese legend, El Hadji Diouf, per Daily Express, after coach Rigobert Song omitted him from the squad.

His absence paved the way for his cousin, Fabrice Ondoa, to assume the role between the goalposts for the five-time African champions, according to Pi News.

Following his eventful journey to Yamoussoukro, Cameroon's AFCON base in Côte d'Ivoire, Onana has now completed his initial training session.

As revealed in photos circulating on social media and observed by Sports Brief, the finalist of the 2022-23 Champions League, donned complete goalkeeping attire and participated in team training sessions ahead of the pivotal match against Senegal.

Will Onana start against Senegal?

It remains uncertain whether Song will make adjustments to his starting lineup to include Onana in their upcoming match against the defending African champions on Friday, January 19.

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However, given the Manchester United goalkeeper's reputation as one of the finest in his position and the significance of the Senegal clash, the manager might opt to designate Onana as the first-choice goalie.

With Senegal securing a statement win against Gambia and Cameroon experiencing a slow start, the outcome of the Group C showdown between these two African football powerhouses will carry implications for determining the winner of the group.

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Onana speaks after Cameroon snub

Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana has spoken out for the first time after being omitted from the Indomitable Lions' initial AFCON group game against Guinea.

Despite arriving in Ivory Coast shortly after playing for Manchester United against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, his presence did not persuade coach Rigobert Song to include him in the matchday squad.

Following the game, a journalist interviewed the former Ajax custodian, who shared his thoughts, as reported by Sports Brief.