Just hours before the start of AFCON 2023, Cameroon is facing a major setback with their top scorer and captain, Vincent Aboubakar. A key player for Rigobert Song’s team and the leading goal-scorer in the previous edition of the World Cup, Aboubakar sustained a serious injury during training this Friday and is headed towards a withdrawal.
What a terrible blow for Cameroon! Already weakened by the absence of Régis Mughe and André Onana, who is expected to join the squad soon, along with controversies, the Indomitable Lions are on the verge of a bitter disappointment. As the serious business begins this Saturday with the opening match of AFCON 2023 between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, entering the competition on Monday, January 15, against Guinea Conakry, will have to do without Vincent Aboubakar.
It’s a devastating situation for Vincent Aboubakar
According to several media reports on Friday night, including C Foot closely following the Cameroonian selection during the competition, the former Besiktas striker suffered a severe injury during training a few hours ago. According to a source from Afrique Sport currently in Ivory Coast, the Indomitable Lions’ den is currently devastated by the situation of their captain, who seems destined for a straightforward withdrawal. With 40 goals in 101 appearances for Cameroon since 2010, Vincent Aboubakar remains Rigobert Song’s key asset in the attack.
After snubbing Bayern Munich’s striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting for reasons causing much discussion, Rigobert Song will now have to do without his star player. Aboubakar’s official withdrawal has not been confirmed yet. However, as mentioned by local Cameroonian media, there is very little chance of seeing the former Al Nassr player taking his place during AFCON 2023. For now, the Cameroonian Federation has not yet issued a statement on the matter, but it is expected to happen soon, given the apparent significance of the news.
Awaiting examinations
According to a Cameroonian colleague close to the selection, on-site in Ivory Coast, “the injury might prevent him from playing in the early matches; FECAFOOT wants to conduct examinations before making any announcements.” Cameroon will be anxiously awaiting developments.
Placed in Group C, the “Group of Death” in this 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea, Cameroon has serious cause for concern. If Aboubakar is unable to play in AFCON 2023, who else can adequately lead the attack for the Indomitable Lions? Despite talented players in Song’s squad, replacing a player like Vincent overnight is challenging. Unless there is reluctance on the part of Cameroonian officials, Choupo-Moting is likely to be called back in the coming hours to compensate for Aboubakar’s almost certain withdrawal.
Meanwhile, it could be an opportunity for players like Wilfried Nathan Douala to make their mark during the competition. We’ll have to wait and see…
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