Cameroon failed to replicate the form that saw them clinch the winning the African Cup of Nations earlier this year after their group stage exit from the FIFA Confederations Cup.
But the Indomitable Lions still remain the only African team to reach the final of this competition; doing so in 2003 but lost to hosts, France in an emotional final.
But as Nigerians, our main focus is on how the Super Eagles will play this same Cameroonian team in August when the sides face off in a crucial 2018 World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria tops group B with six points after wins against Zambia and Algeria respectively.
Cameroon on the other hand are in second place but with only two points from the games against Algeria and Zambia.
With the current standing, Nigeria and Cameroon – especially Cameroon – need to secure maximum points from the August 28 or September 3 encounters to boost their chances of playing at the World cup next year in Russia.
However, after Cameroon’s display in the Confederations cup, the following are the possible ways Nigeria can cause havoc to Hugo Broos’ team.
1) Speed: The Cameroonian team is a very strong and energetic team, so it will be senseless of Gernot Rohr’s men to try to play a physical battle with them.
Relying on the pace, quick play and lightning football on that day will serve the Eagles better. The blitzing speed of Wingers; including Ahmed Musa and Moses Simon, should be deployed to exploit the Cameroonian full backs.
2) Possession: One of the main reasons why the likes of Chile and Germany were able to break down the stubborn Cameroonian defense was through patience and precision passes.
If the Eagles are to stand a chance against this Cameroonian team, they must keep possession of the ball and frustrate their opponent’s. Therefore the presence of Mikel Obi and Ogenyi Onazi in midfield would be vital.
3) Awareness of counter-attacks and defensive errors: If the Super Eagles are to pick up the three points they so much desire; cut out any defensive errors.
Either Daniel Akpeyi or Carl Ikeme (hopefully) must organize the defense as well as communicate properly with them.
Also the team must play as a unit, disciplined and stay woke against the likes of captain Benjamin Moukandjo and Striker, Vincent Aboubakar who if given the chance will show no mercy.
4) Set pieces: The Cameroonians forwards and midfielders towered above their opponents in Russia, Australia were the only team that had players who could match them shoulder to shoulder literally.
Against the small frames of Super Eagles players – save for Leon Balogun and John Ogu – Cameroon will be massive threats in the air and particularly in set pieces situations.
Therefore, Gernot Rohr will do well to work on his player’s ability to defend aerial balls.
I sincerely hope that the Super Eagles can play to this instructions, so they can keep a firm grip on the group at the top and perhaps even run away with the sole ticket in Group B.
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