Reigning African champions Cameroon will begin their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign this Tuesday in Group F against Guinea-Bissau, but they will be without right-back Collins Fai.
The Standard Liège defender, like Sadio Mané in a similar situation, is suspended after receiving two consecutive yellow cards during the AFCON qualifiers. Fai, a key contributor to Cameroon’s title win two years ago, had been given a second chance by coach Clarence Seedorf, but his absence represents a significant blow to the team’s defensive line.
Fai’s suspension also explains why Seedorf chose not to field him in the pre-tournament friendly against Mali in Doha on June 14th, ensuring compliance with CAF regulations. Alongside the absence of striker Joël Tagueu, Cameroon faces its opening match against Guinea-Bissau missing two important players, making squad adjustments and defensive organization critical for the Indomitable Lions’ title defense.
