AFCON 2023: Cameroon Dealt Fitness Blow Ahead of Crucial Showdown Against Nigeria

• The commencement of Africa Cup of Nations knockout rounds is on the horizon
• The Super Eagles of Nigeria are poised to face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon
• Rigobert Song’s side have been dealt a fitness blow ahead of the crucial showdown

The build-up to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash between Nigeria and the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon continues to herald the continent’s football scene.

These West African giants are set to renew their longstanding rivalry at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.

However, in the lead-up to the pulsating encounter, the two teams have experienced divergent fortunes in terms of injuries and player fitness.

While the Super Eagles celebrate the return to fitness of midfielder Alhassan Yusuf and vice-captain Willian Troost-Ekong, the same cannot be said for the Cameroonian squad.

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According to a report from media outlet Soccernet, two key Cameroonian players are facing significant doubts ahead of the crucial match.

Cameroon faced with fitness issues

The reports highlight the uncertainties surrounding the unavailability of both FC Nantes defender Jean-Charles Castelletto and the dynamic Damac FC forward Georges-Kevin N'Koudou ahead of the clash against the Super Eagles, with health issues suspected to be linked to malaria.

According to the report, the duo couldn't complete their team’s final training session, displaying symptoms associated with the mosquito-borne disease.

Castelletto and N'Koudou were an integral part of Rigobert Song’s side throughout the group stages and would be sorely missed if they are unable to feature against Nigeria.

The significance of these two players to the Indomitable Lions is evident, given their involvement in four out of the five goals scored by the Cameroonian national team in the AFCON so far.

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Song and his medical team find themselves in a race against time to ensure the duo returns to full fitness, adding to the pressure as they prepare for the crucial upcoming match.

Cameroon coach sends message to Nigeria

In another report, Sports Brief stated that Cameroon's head coach, Rigobert Song, has conveyed a defiant message to the Super Eagles in anticipation of their pivotal encounter.

The 47-year-old emphasised the significance of his team's strength, asserting that they are not weary by the threat posed by forward Victor Osimhen.

The coach further underscored his team's commitment to going all out in pursuit of victory.