Cameroon captain Vincent Aboubakar is set to make a return to the pitch for the Indomitable Lions in the crucial Round of 16 clash against Nigeria in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Aboubakar missed Cameroon’s group-stage matches due to an injury sustained in training just days before the tournament began. However, the team’s recent intense training session, featured the 32-year-old striker, signaling his availability for selection.
Equinoxe Tv, Cameroon’s media outfit, reported Aboubakar’s participation in the training session and confirmed the recovery of forward Clinton Njie from injury, making both players eligible for selection in the upcoming match against Nigeria.
The return of Aboubakar, who finished as the top scorer in the AFCON 2021 held in Cameroon with eight goals, adds a significant offensive dimension to the Indomitable Lions.
The Turkish Super Lig star has scored four goals and provided one assist in 12 appearances for Besiktas this season.
Cameroon’s head coach, Rigobert Song, will be optimistic about Aboubakar’s ability to lead the team’s forward line, especially considering his impressive track record in previous AFCON editions.
The upcoming clash against Nigeria holds historical significance, with Cameroon seeking their first AFCON win against the Super Eagles since 2000. Despite a penalty shootout victory in the AFCON 2000, Cameroon has faced defeats against Nigeria in the 2004 and 2019 editions.
The return of the former Al Nassr striker, coupled with Clinton Njie’s recovery, provides a welcome boost to the Indomitable Lions, who aim to advance in the tournament after a challenging group stage. The team have struggled to be profilic upfront except for their final group game which saw them go all out to secure a 3-2 win over Gambia to secure qualification.