We showed mental strength – Cameroon coach David Pagou after Ivory Coast victory

Cameroon head coach David Pagou has praised the mental strength and defensive resilience of his players after the Indomitable Lions secured a 1–0 victory over Ivory Coast in an international friendly on Saturday, October 3, at the Ebimbe Olympic Stadium.

The Indomitable Lions produced a disciplined performance against their West African neighbours, holding on to their advantage after taking the lead early in the second half.

Pagou was particularly pleased with the way his players responded after going ahead, stressing that they had to remain mentally strong and defensively organised to prevent Ivory Coast from finding a way back into the game.

“We showed mental strength. We scored very early in the second half and then had to hold firm defensively. We cut out the balls to Sangare to avoid being caught out behind the defence. We managed to do that and, in the end, it came down to mental strength,” Pagou said.

The victory provides Cameroon with a positive ending to their current training camp and gives the team added confidence ahead of the next international window.

Pagou believes the result and the attitude displayed by his players can provide an important foundation as the Indomitable Lions prepare for the challenges ahead, with November already approaching.

For the Cameroonian coach, maintaining the same level of focus and determination will be crucial, particularly when his players return to their respective clubs.

“The most important thing for us was to leave this training camp in high spirits, because we need to build on this attitude quickly as November is just around the corner. Today, I believe everyone will return to their clubs feeling stronger than ever,” he added.

The 1–0 triumph over Ivory Coast therefore represents more than just a friendly victory for Cameroon, with Pagou hoping the confidence gained from the result will translate into stronger performances when the national team reunites for its next assignment.