Cameroon coach Rigobert Song has explained his decision to immediately suspend goalkeeper Andre Onana amid reports of a fall-out.
The African giants, Cameroon, are currently preparing to play their final FIFA World Cup match in Group G against Brazil on Friday.
While Onana was available for the clash against Switzerland where they lost 1-0, he was dropped for the second tie against Serbia as they drew 3-3 on Monday – Song says he wants a disciplined team.
The Inter Milan keeper Onana was not listed among the substitutes on Monday and the former Indomitable Lions skipper, Song said the net minder remains an important player.
Reports of dissatisfaction with Song’s tactical nous have emerged from the Cameroon camp, with suggestions the coach and goalkeeper have disagreed over Onana’s regular venturing out of his box.
“He is an important player, but we are in a difficult tournament,” said the coach after the thrilling draw.
“I know what I have to do, and that is to ensure that the team takes precedence over any individuals.
“Andre wanted to step out and we accepted that position. In a squad, discipline is important.”
In their 3-3 stalemate, substitute Vincent Aboubakar played a crucial role and stated that he was driven by the desire to contribute to the nation.
“In these competitions, you have to show the desire for victory,” said Aboubakar.
“My teammates played a great first half despite some small mistakes. We felt they [Serbia] were shaky and a bit tired. When I came on, I tried to make the most of it.
“[The] most important [thing] is to give the Cameroon people joy. What matters is the mindset and the collective spirit, and in that regard, we played a great game.,” continued the 46-year-old coach.
“It is possible to beat Brazil. We believe in ourselves, we did not come here to just go through the motions. Cameroon still has a contribution to make to this tournament.”
Main Image: Andre Onana/TalkSPORT
The post Cameroon coach Rigobert Song suspends keeper Andre Onana appeared first on Entertainment SA - South African Entertainment News, Celebrity and Lifestyle Online Magazine & Entertainment.
Post a Comment