Cameroon has decided to recall Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations clash against Burundi.
This match is part of the final matchday of qualifying, scheduled for Wednesday, September 6, 2023.
Onana had previously been suspended and sent home from the national team due to a tactical disagreement with coach Rigobert Song, following his participation in Cameroon’s opening 2022 World Cup match against Switzerland.
Coach Rigobert Song Persuades Onana to Return
In a surprising turn of events, coach Rigobert Song has managed to convince Andre Onana to come out of his self-imposed international retirement.
This decision comes as Cameroon desperately needs a win to secure their qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast.
Qualification Scenario and Groups
Title-holders Senegal are among the 15 countries that have already qualified for the biennial African showpiece.
Nine more places are up for grabs during the seven-day final round of qualifying.
Cameroon, a five-time champion, is in a precarious position after earning only one point from two matches against Namibia.
This situation arises from a section that was reduced to three teams following Kenya’s disqualification.
Central African Republic’s Second Chance at Qualification
The Central African Republic now has a second chance to qualify for the tournament for the first time.
However, they face the challenging task of defeating four-time champions Ghana in Kumasi.
Their previous opportunity to secure a historic place was thwarted by a late defeat to Angola, compounded by the absence of their injured captain and midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Tanzania and Uganda Battle for Qualification
Tanzania holds a three-point advantage over Uganda in the race to join already-qualified Algeria in the finals.
Algeria’s home advantage makes them favorites to beat Tanzania, while Uganda seeks to draw level on points if they can defeat Niger, who have relocated a home fixture to Morocco due to a lack of a suitable venue.
Gambia’s Impressive Debut and Hotly Contested Section
Gambia, which had an impressive debut in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, currently enjoys a three-point advantage over Congo.
A draw would be enough to seal qualification for the Scorpions.
This section is highly competitive, with only three points separating the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mauritania, Gabon, and Sudan, all vying for two qualifying places.
DR Congo and Mauritania appear to be the likely qualifiers due to their home advantage.
Mozambique vs. Benin: A Decisive Match
A decisive match between Mozambique and Benin in Maputo will determine the team that advances to the Ivory Coast alongside section winners Senegal.
Mozambique holds a two-point advantage, meaning a draw would suffice for them, while Benin must secure a victory to secure their fifth appearance.
This concludes the key developments and scenarios in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches as of September 6, 2023.