“Itandje thwarts Yahia’s header!” What an outstanding display from the Cameroonian goalkeeper this afternoon. And the SuperSport channel commentators seem to agree. In the comments of the Tunisia-Cameroon match (0-0) for the first leg play-offs of the 2014 World Cup, Itandje’s name resonated repeatedly, and rightfully so. The custodian from the Turkish club Konyaspor was the sole player who didn’t falter at the start of the game.
Already under pressure, he denied a shot from Chikhaoui in the first minute and made two crucial saves to thwart Sami Allagui’s attempts to open the scoring. Charles Itandje emerged as the hero of the first half, contributing to the Indomitable Lions’ commendable 0-0 result. The applause from his teammates reflected his significant role in their resilient performance.
Eto’o faces a challenge!
Continuing his stellar performance into the second half, Itandje, a former RC Lens player who had a limited stint at Anfield (barely 10 games in 4 years at Liverpool), showcased the enduring quality of his goalkeeping skills. Even when he wasn’t in action, his presence loomed large. Such is the fortune of great goalkeepers.
With this stellar performance, Itandje likely silenced critics, including his captain, Samuel Eto’o. Recalling a few weeks ago during the last group match against Libya, the Chelsea player expressed disagreement with certain coaching decisions, particularly favoring his friend Carlos Kameni over Itandje. Despite Eto’o’s dissent, Itandje held his ground and delivered an impressive performance. The confirmation awaits in Yaoundé.
