Former Cameroon international Georges Mandjeck has blamed Cameroon coach Rigobert Song for the Indomitable Lions’ elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following their 2-0 loss to Nigeria in the round of 16 stage.
Ademola Lookman’s double secured the victory for the Super Eagles on Saturday, January 27, 2024.
That defeat marked a third consecutive loss for Cameroon against Nigeria at the AFCON, with previous defeats in the 2004, 2019, and now at the 2023 tournament.
Since their triumph over the Eagles in the final of AFCON 2000, the Lions have struggled to secure victories in subsequent encounters.
George Mandjeck ( Number 20 ) In action for Cameroon vs France.
Mandjeck, a member of the 2017 AFCON-winning Cameroon squad and part of the team that lost to Nigeria in 2019, expressed his disappointment over the result saying Rigobert Song did not ‘live up to the potential of his players.’
He said to reporters: “Very disappointed to see the Lions crash out in the knockout like in 2019 against this Nigerian team. I am sure that the players gave everything but that the coach does not live up to the potential of his players.”
The comments suggest concerns about the coaching approach and its alignment with the capabilities of the players. Cameroon’s early exit from the tournament has raised discussions about team dynamics and coaching strategies with a decision expected from Samuel Eto’o led FECAFOOT.
READ ALSO: Senegal title defence threatened by revival chasing Cote d’Ivoire in 2023 AFCON round of 16
