David Pagou has eight Cameroon players still unused

David Pagou’s Cameroon side still has eight members of its Africa Cup of Nations qualifying squad waiting for their first appearance. The unused players underline the coach’s ongoing search for a settled team after two matches against Comoros and Congo.

Pagou has fielded 18 of the 26 players selected for the qualifiers. The remaining group includes two goalkeepers, three defenders, one midfielder and two forwards. He has indicated that further squad rotation is planned for Cameroon’s friendly against Ivory Coast at Ebimpè.

Blondy Noukeu could give up his place in goal for that match, with Montpellier goalkeeper Simon Ngapandndouetmbou in contention to start. Duplexe Tchamba’s availability is also uncertain. A different line-up would give Pagou the opportunity to assess more of the players who have not yet featured, while continuing to make adjustments across his tactical plans.

The Ivory Coast game therefore carries a clear selection purpose for Cameroon. It is the next opportunity for the coach to broaden his assessment of the squad and reduce the number of players still without game time.