Cameroon’s friendly match against Zambia ended in a draw, with no substitutions made by coach Rigobert Song. In preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, they faced a tough challenge against Zambia on January 9th, 2024, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Head Coach Rigobert Song opted for a 4-3-3 tactical team line-up, with Darlin Yongwa, Vincent Aboubakar, and Moumi Ngamaleu leading the attack. Zambo Anguissa, Olivier Kemen, and Olivier Ntcham formed the midfield trio. The defense was anchored by the Moukoudi-Wooh pairing, with Nouhou Tolo and Castelletto on the flanks.
The match proved to be a struggle for Song’s team, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Chipolopolos of Zambia.
It was in the early minutes of the encounter that Zambia’s Patson Daka permitted his team by taking the lead. An early goal which mounted pressure on the Indomitable Lions. However, Cameroon managed to equalize with a goal from Darlin Yongwa, at the 20th Minute of play, after which no other goal was scored, till the final whistle.
The game was held at the annex D stadium of the King Abdallah Sports City, was crucial for Cameroon as they aimed to regain confidence before the kickoff of the continental jamboree.
That notwithstanding, one surprising aspect of the match was Song’s decision not to make any substitutions, while Zambia made four changes. The tactical choice has sparked debates and raised questions among football observers as the major competition approaches.
For Zambia, this friendly match served as a true test to assess their strength against one of the tournament favorites.
Ranked 84th in the FIFA rankings, Zambia will have an opportunity to make an impact in Group F, which includes Morocco, DR Congo, and Tanzania.
