Match Overview
A crucial clash in Group J of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers sees Kenya host Cameroon at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium on Monday afternoon. The two teams are separated by just three points, making this match pivotal for both sides’ hopes of qualifying for the tournament in Morocco.
Match Preview
In their previous encounter on Friday, Cameroon showcased a dominant performance, defeating Kenya 4-1 at Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo. Goals from Vincent Aboubakar, Martin Hongla, and Bryan Mbeumo put the Indomitable Lions in a commanding position by halftime, with Christian Bassogog adding the final touch ten minutes into the second half. This victory marked Cameroon’s second win in three AFCON qualifiers, and they currently sit at the top of Group J after three matches.
Cameroon is unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions, conceding only three goals while scoring ten. A win in this upcoming fixture would nearly secure their spot in the AFCON tournament, but their away form has been concerning, with just one victory on foreign soil since 2022.
For Kenya, despite the heavy loss to Cameroon, their AFCON aspirations remain alive. They are only one point behind Zimbabwe, who currently occupy the second spot in the group. The recent defeat was a wake-up call for the Harambee Stars, as it marked the first time since 2021 that they conceded four or more goals in a match. Kenya needs to break their five-game winless streak against Cameroon to regain control of their qualification hopes.
Team News
For Cameroon, Bryan Mbeumo has been in fine form, scoring in four consecutive matches for both club and country. Vincent Aboubakar is closing in on Roger Milla’s all-time scoring record for Cameroon and will be a key player to watch. However, Christopher Wooh is a doubt for this match after exiting the previous game with an injury.
Kenya’s Michael Olunga made a strong return to action, scoring a goal in his last outing and will be pivotal for the hosts. Chrispine Erambo may be brought back into the starting lineup following an injury to Richard Odada during the last match.
Possible Lineups
Kenya:
– Formation: 4-3-3
– Starting XI: Matasi; Otieno, Owino, Anyembe, Nondi; Ouma, Erambo, Akumu; Abuya, Olunga, Onyango
Cameroon:
– Formation: 4-2-3-1
– Starting XI: Onana; Tchatchoua, Ngadeu, Castelletto, Tolo; Ndzie; Mbeumo, Hongla, Anguissa, Bassogog; Aboubakar
Cameroon heads into this match as the favorites, given their recent form and historical performance against Kenya. However, the home advantage may provide Kenya with the motivation needed to mount a stronger challenge. Both teams will be eager for points, and a draw seems likely as both sides look to solidify their positions in the qualifying standings.
