AFCON 2027 Qualifier: Cameroon sweat over Christian Kofane fitness ahead of Congo clash

Cameroon could be without striker Christian Kofane for their second matchday fixture of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after the Bayer Leverkusen forward picked up a thigh problem.

The Indomitable Lions opened their qualifying campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over the Comoros on September 24 at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium in Garoua.

However, Kofane’s early withdrawal has now become a concern for head coach David Pagou ahead of Cameroon’s next assignment.

The 19-year-old striker was substituted at half-time after experiencing discomfort in his thigh. Following the match, Pagou explained that the decision was taken as a precaution to avoid aggravating the problem.

“He was holding his thigh; he felt a slight twinge, and we didn’t want to take any risks,” Pagou said.

Kofane subsequently underwent medical examinations, which reportedly revealed a minor strain. While the injury is not considered serious, his availability for Cameroon’s next game remains uncertain.

The forward’s situation became more concerning on Saturday morning when he reportedly did not take part in the stretching session with the rest of the squad in Brazzaville.

Cameroon will now closely monitor Kofane’s condition as they prepare for their second qualifying fixture against the Republic of Congo.

The Indomitable Lions travel to face the Red Devils on September 29 at the Alphonse Massamba-Debat Stadium in Brazzaville, looking to maintain their winning start to the qualification campaign.

Kofane’s potential absence would be a blow to Pagou’s plans, particularly after Cameroon began their campaign with three goals against the Comoros.

The technical team is expected to assess the striker’s condition in the coming days before making a final decision on whether he will be fit enough to feature in Brazzaville.

With the match coming just five days after the opening fixture, Cameroon will be cautious with the Bayer Leverkusen forward and will not want to risk worsening what has reportedly been diagnosed as a minor thigh strain.