Cameroon's head coach, Rigobert Song, acknowledges the need for defensive improvement as they aim to advance to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals.
Despite trailing against Gambia, a fortuitous own goal and a late Christopher Wooh strike secured a 3-2 victory, propelling Cameroon to the last-16.
Facing Nigeria in Abidjan on Saturday, Song emphasized the importance of shoring up their defense against Victor Osimhen, the African Footballer of the Year. Concerned about conceding, Song stated, “We have already conceded six goals, and we will find the formula to not concede.” He expressed determination to challenge Nigeria and secure a positive outcome.
The potential return of captain Vincent Aboubakar, absent during the group stage due to a thigh injury, is expected to bolster Cameroon's lineup. In contrast, Nigeria, led by coach Jose Peseiro, advanced smoothly to the knockout stages, with victories over Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau following a draw against Equatorial Guinea.
Despite having scored only three goals in the campaign, Peseiro is content with Nigeria's strategic approach. He highlighted the team's ability to create clear opportunities, stating, “Sometimes the ketchup doesn’t come, but the next time all the ketchup (comes out). In the next match or another match, we can score more goals with fewer opportunities.” Nigeria aims to capitalize on their chances and continue their successful run in the tournament.
