Cameroon has announced its provisional squad for the upcoming double-header against Kenya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo among the key players included. Mbeumo, in top form for his club, will be looking to replicate his Premier League success on the international stage as Cameroon seeks to strengthen its position in Group J.
Mbeumo has been sensational for Brentford this season, netting five goals in the team’s first six Premier League matches. His standout performances include goals scored inside the opening minute against Tottenham and West Ham, making him a crucial player for both club and country. As the AFCON qualifiers heat up, Mbeumo will aim to carry that momentum into Cameroon’s crucial fixtures.
Another prominent name in the squad is Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, who has been impressive between the posts, keeping three clean sheets in six Premier League appearances this season. The Indomitable Lions head coach, Marc Brys, will be counting on Onana’s experience and leadership as they prepare to face Kenya twice in the span of three days.
Cameroon currently sits second in Group J behind Kenya’s Harambee Stars, having secured four points from their first two qualifiers. The first of the two matches will be held at the Japoma Stadium in Douala on October 11, followed by a return fixture three days later. These games are critical for Cameroon as they aim to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON and maintain their strong footballing legacy on the continent.
In addition to Mbeumo and Onana, the squad features several regulars in the national team setup. Napoli midfielder Andre-Frank Anguissa, Brighton & Hove Albion’s rising talent Carlos Baleba, and veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar are just a few of the key players expected to play pivotal roles. The blend of experience and youth in the squad highlights Brys’ strategy to create a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.
Despite the strong lineup, Cameroon has faced some challenges in securing commitments from all their targeted players. Three potential debutants have declined the opportunity to join the squad. According to Cameroon’s press officer, Germain Noel Essengue, Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck, Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Eric Junior Dina Ebimbe, and Luzern midfielder Nicky Beloko have all opted not to commit to the national team at this stage. This reluctance from some of Europe’s top talents is a challenge Brys and his technical team will need to navigate as they build a squad for the future.
Nevertheless, the core of the team remains intact, with defenders such as Rennes’ Christopher Wooh and AEK Athens’ Harold Moukoudi providing strength at the back. Midfield options like Olivier Ntcham of Samsunspor and Martin Hongla of Verona bring versatility and creativity to the squad. Up front, Cameroon boasts an array of attacking talent, with Aboubakar, Mbeumo, and Kevin Nkoudou of Damac all expected to lead the charge for goals.
As the 2025 AFCON qualifiers progress, all eyes will be on Cameroon to see if they can maintain their strong position in Group J and secure a spot in the tournament. The upcoming matches against Kenya will be a true test of the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure. For players like Mbeumo, these fixtures offer the perfect opportunity to showcase their skills on the international stage and contribute to Cameroon’s ongoing football legacy.
Cameroon’s Provisional Squad for 2025 AFCON Qualifiers:
Goalkeepers: Andre Onana (Manchester United), Simon Omossola (Saint Eloi Lupopo), Simon Ngapandouetnbu (Nimes).
Defenders: Christopher Wooh (Rennes), Jean Tchatchoua (Verona), Harold Moukoudi (AEK Athens), Yvan Dibango (Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih), Michael Ngadeu (Beijing Guoan), Noho Tolo (Seattle Sounders), Fai Collins (Al-Tai), Guy Kilama (Niort), James Djeungoue (Gaziantep).
Midfielders: Andre-Frank Anguissa (Napoli), Martin Hongla (Verona), Olivier Ntcham (Samsunspor), Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion), Yvan Neyou (Leganes), Pierre Kunde (Dibba Al-Hisn), Flavien Boyomo (Osasuna), Martin Atemengue (FC Ashdod).
Forwards: Lamkel Ze (FC Metz), Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford), Moumi Ngamaleu (Young Boys), Kevin Nkoudou (Damac), Vincent Aboubakar (Hatayspor), Frank Magri (Toulouse), Enow Boris (DC United), Christian Bassogog (Al-Okhdood), Danny Namasso (Reading), Patrick Socko (Huesca).
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