AFCON 2023: Ex DR Congo Star Backs Victor Osimhen, Shares Thoughts on Nigeria vs Cameroon Clash

AFCON 2023: Ex DR Congo Star Backs Victor Osimhen, Shares Thoughts on Nigeria vs Cameroon Clash

Ero Samson
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
In this article:
CAF Africa Cup of Nations logo
CAF AFCON
Africa
Nigeria logo
Nigeria
Nigeria
21
Super Eagles logo
Super Eagles
South Africa
Cameroon logo
Cameroon
Cameroon
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Gabriel Zakuani logo
G. Zakuani
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Victor Osimhen logo
V. Osimhen
Napoli logoFNigeria logo
  • The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 is on the horizon
  • Fans are thrilled by the matchup between Nigeria and Cameroon
  • A former DR Congo forward has given his take on the crucial clash

The buzz surrounding the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is indeed contagious, and a host of individuals and stakeholders are fully immersed in the frenzy of the footballing showpiece.

As the Round of 16 approaches, one particular fixture catches the eye – the matchup between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon which stands out as the highlight of the round.

AFCON, Super Eagles, Nigeria, CAF, Cameroon.
Super Eagles of Nigeria players gather during the AFCON clash against Ivory Coast. Image: Issouf Sanogo.
Source: Getty Images

Several former footballers have shared their insights on this clash, offering their predictions on the likely winner between Jose Peseiro’s team and Rigobert Song’s side.

However, in the lead-up to the anticipated clash, former DR Congo forward, Gabriel Zakuani, has shared his thoughts on what promises to be an exhilarating fixture on the cards.

Gabriel Zakuani on AFCON

In a recent interview with the BBC, as reported by All Nigerian Soccer, the 37-year-old retired football player delved into the upcoming clash between the West African counterparts.

Zakuani expressed, "For me, Nigeria against Cameroon stands out. They actually have a strong rivalry, and it will be fascinating to witness some intense challenges in that match."

The former Fulham star also voiced his support for Victor Osimhen, who has been struggling to find the back of the net. Zakuani stated,

"I'm eager to see Osimhen start converting those chances into goals. He's getting the opportunities but hasn't found the back of the net. I hope he lights up the fixture because he'll be looking forward to that one."

While the marquee Nigerian talisman has played a pivotal role in his team's journey in the tournament, he has yet to hit his goal-scoring stride.

Zakuani's predictions about the upcoming fixtures seem to align with the sentiments of many who have shared their perspectives on both teams. They often highlight the longstanding rivalry between the two nations.

AFCON winner offers advice to Nigeria

Sports Brief in another report stressed that a former AFCON winner has offered advice to Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of the clash against Cameroon.

35-year-old Brown Ideye shared insights into what Nigeria needs to do to secure victory in the Round of 16 match against the Indomitable Lions.

The 2013 AFCON winner also underscored the importance of Jose Peseiro's side utilising their attacking prowess more effectively.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).