Sports news is marked by the friendly match between Senegal and Cameroon, which takes place this Monday, October 16 in Lens. This meeting has special significance, since the two teams will also meet at the next African Cup of Nations in 2024, in the same group C.
However, from the draw, clouds darkened the horizon of this friendly match. Indeed, according to the rules of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), two selections which will share the same group cannot face each other in a friendly match less than three months before the competition. However, Senegal and Cameroon will meet in three months and three days, thus making the friendly match potentially cancelable.
Despite these questions, the parties concerned ultimately decided to maintain the meeting. A decision which delights the supporters of both teams, impatient to see a taste of the clash to come during CAN 2024.
And it’s not just on the field that the rivalry is felt. Former players from both teams have already thrown barbs at each other, proving a very present animosity. Khalilou Fadiga, unhappy finalist with Senegal in 2002 against Cameroon, says that the matches against Cameroon were always difficult, but that it was a pleasure to play them. He also recalls that Senegal is the holder of the current trophy, thus increasing the pressure.
Gérémy Njitap, winner in 2002 of the CAN final against Senegal, is convinced that the pressure is on the Senegalese shoulders. He believes that Senegal is more vengeful, due to the significant victories that Cameroon has won against this team.
Alassane N’Dour, president of the Senegalese Football Federation, describes this meeting as a “derby” between the Lions of Téranga and the Indomitables. He underlines the importance of the mind in these confrontations and affirms that the psychological ascendancy has changed sides. According to him, Senegal is no longer afraid of Cameroon, having won the last CAN on its soil.
These declarations and these issues announce an intense friendly match, where Senegal and Cameroon will compete for supremacy, with a view to their future duel in official competition. Supporters of both teams are impatiently awaiting this face-to-face match, which promises to be memorable.
In conclusion, the friendly match between Senegal and Cameroon is already causing great tensions and heightened rivalry. Former players do not hesitate to throw barbs and the supporters are impatient. This match is a preview of the clash to come at the next CAN, and promises to be an exciting spectacle for all football fans.