Inter Milan star leads trio in declining Cameroon call-up for 2025 AFCON qualifiers

The matches are set to take place on October 11 in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and October 14 in Uganda.

Reports from Camerounweb indicate that Bisseck, along with Eric-Junior Dina-Ebimbe from Eintracht Frankfurt and Nicky Beloko of FC Luzern, has requested additional time to consider their participation. These dual nationals were pre-selected by Belgian coach Marc Brys but are reportedly uncertain about committing to the national team during this critical qualification phase.

The potential absence of these talented players could be detrimental for Cameroon, particularly as more European-born athletes with Cameroonian roots are increasingly opting to delay or decline national team representation. Bisseck, known for his formidable presence as a center-back, and Dina-Ebimbe, a versatile midfielder in the Bundesliga, would have significantly strengthened the team's defensive and midfield lines. Meanwhile, Beloko's experience in Switzerland's Super League would have added valuable depth.

Despite this setback, Cameroon's roster still features several established players. Captain Vincent Aboubakar will spearhead the team, supported by key figures like goalkeeper André Onana, defender Michael Ngadeu Ngadjui, and Collins Fai. The coach's strategy of integrating younger players has also drawn attention from fans and analysts.

Newcomers Flavien Enzo Boyomo from CA Osasuna in Spain and James Willy Djeungoue from MSK Zilina in Slovakia have been included to enhance the defensive lineup. Additionally, winger Patrick Socko from SD Huesca and midfielder Nicky Beloko (who remains undecided) have been called up to bolster attacking and midfield options.

Cameroon began its qualification campaign on a strong note, securing a 1-0 victory against Namibia and a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe. Currently positioned favorably in Group J, they face a confident Kenyan side fresh off a 2-1 win against Namibia.

As both teams vie for crucial points in this double-header to secure their AFCON qualification, Cameroon is determined to solidify its standing at the top of the group, even in the face of the trio's absence.

Cameroon Squad:

Goalkeepers:

André Onana (Manchester United, England)Simon Omossola (St Eloi Lupopo, DR Congo)Simon Ngapandouetnbu (Nîmes, France)

Defenders:

Christopher Wooh (Rennes, France)Jean Tchatchoua (Hellas Verona, Italy)Harold Moukoudi (AEK Athens, Greece)Yvan Dibango (AKryvbas Kryvyi Ri, Ukraine)Michael Ngadeu (Beijing Guoan, China)Noho Tolo (Seattle Sounders, USA)Fai Collins (Al-Tai, Saudi Arabia)Guy Kilama (Niort, France)James Djeungoue (Gaziantep, Turkey)

Midfielders:

Zambo Anguissa (Napoli, Italy)Martin Hongla (Hellas Verona, Italy)Olivier Ntcham (Samsunspor, Turkey)Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion, England)Yvan Neyou (Leganés, Spain)Pierre Kunde (Dibba Al-Hisn, UAE)Flavien Boyomo (CA Osasuna, Spain)Martin Atemengue (FC Ashdod, Israel)

Forwards:

Lamkel Ze (FC Metz, France)Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford, England)Moumi Ngamaleu (Young Boys, Switzerland)Kevin Nkoudou (Damac, Saudi Arabia)Vincent Aboubakar (Hatayspor, Turkey)Frank Magri (Toulouse, France)Enow Boris (DC United, USA)Christian Bassogog (Al-Okhdood, Saudi Arabia)Danny Namasso (Reading, England)Patrick Socko (SD Huesca, Spain)

As Cameroon gears up for this pivotal series, the team will strive to maintain momentum and secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON, scheduled to be held in Morocco.

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