Cameroon XI vs Nigeria prediction: Onana, Aboubakar start in AFCON 2024 battle of the ages?

Published on by Rotimi Akindele

The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon are looking to turn the tide following an unimpressive run at AFCON 2024 in Ivory Coast that saw the team finish on four points.

The Rigobert Song-led team played a draw against Guinea, a defeat to holders Senegal, and narrowly advanced to the Round of 16 with a late win over Gambia.

Cameroon have struggled, no doubt, and that can be attributed to the absence of main striker Vincent Aboubakar, who has now been given the all clear to feature in the Round of 16 encounter.

They will be counting on the experience and exposure of Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana as well, even though he was benched in the final group game with a lot of uncertainty still surrounding his place in the first XI.

In the absence of Aboubakar, Frank Magri has been the star player to watch for the Indomitable Lions, but would Song risk starting the two against a formidable Super Eagles side or start one and bench one?

Predicted Cameroon XI against Nigeria

Andre Onana

You always need the experienced ones to step up in big games, so Onana might get the nod ahead of Ondoa. The Manchester United stopper will be hoping to put in a good shift, especially since it appears that coach Song seems to be enjoying the rotation.

Cameroon
Photo by Icon Sport

Darlin Yongwa

The left-back is a decent player but has struggled just like the entire team has in this tournament. He usually helps with the attack and has enough pace to recover early. He's quite solid in duels, and that should get him the nod ahead of the game versus Nigeria.

Christopher Wooh

The defender was on the score sheet for Cameroon in that crucial win over Gambia. He will be looking forward to doing that again and helping them keep a clean sheet, which they have struggled with.

icon 649 cmrbra20221202 r 403
© Tnani Badreddine/IconSport

Harold Moukoudi

Another big defender with a height advantage. He has an advantage in aerial duels and an eye for goal, especially from set pieces.

Jean-Charles Castelletto

Lately, the centre half's partnership with Moukoudi has been encouraging. The duo will be hoping to keep the Nigerian attackers at bay.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa

Master in the midfield for club and country. Always consistent. Can create openings with his passes and has an eye for goals from long range. One the opponents have to be wary of. He initiates and breaks down plays conveniently.

icon 65012035
Photo by Icon sport

Olivier Kemen

A solid and strong midfielder, one for the future. Has been consistent in the role for Song's team in Abidjan and will be looking to doing more against Nigeria. Creativity in the midfield lies with him.

Olivier Ntcham

Another exciting midfielder who is fast and has an attacking eye. He didn't impress at Swansea but has been putting in some decent numbers since he moved to Turkey to join Samsunspor

68255944 2654476547925567 337977874239717376 n

Georges N'Koudou

He's been the Indomitable Lions' best player in the tournament. He has created the highest clear-cut chances for the team, making him the only player to have done much in this competition. He can be the X-factor for Cameroon.

iconsport 75133547
Photo by Icon Sport

Karl Toko Ekambi

He will bring all of his experience to the fore and ensure he helps to create and take the chances. He shouldn't be ignored, as his pace and intelligence upfront will be key to the team.

icon bisi5766
Frank Magri – Icon Sport

Frank Magri

He hasn't disappointed since he replaced the main attacker Aboubakar upfront. A perfect go-to for when the Lions need a goal, so we think he'll get the nod ahead of his more esteemed teammate.

Cameroon will be hoping for a positive outcome in the game versus Nigeria inside the Félix Houphouët Boigny Stadium with the hopes of advancing in the competition.

Avatar photo

Rotimi Akindele

Rotimi Akindele is a Sports Journalist with almost two decades' experience. He is a TV and radio host, commentator and writer who has covered major sporting events across the globe. Akindele's sports content has been listened to and read by a global audience. He is a well-known figure within Nigeria and the African football scene.