Cameroon take control of group after 2-0 win over Namibia, says Laurent Djam

Cameroon moved to the top of their group with a 2-0 victory over Namibia at Japoma, a result former Lions U23 assistant coach Laurent Djam believes offers encouraging evidence of the team’s progress.

Speaking to Africafoot the day after the match, Djam praised the tactical changes made by the Indomitable Lions and identified the 4-2-3-1 formation as one of the main positives. He said the system provided greater balance and helped Cameroon establish a clearer identity built around possession, high pressing and rapid transitions.

Djam was particularly impressed by the way Cameroon started the game. He compared the opening spell to the first quarter of a basketball match, highlighting the team’s aggressive pressing and intensity from the outset.

That early pressure allowed the hosts to impose their rhythm and gave them a strong platform in the match. For Djam, the opening period was an indication of a side that had prepared effectively and was willing to defend from the front.

In midfield, he singled out vice-captain Arthur Avom Ebong for praise. He also discussed Yondjo’s first appearance, assessing the young player’s performance with understanding while recognising the significance of his introduction to the team.

Djam believes Cameroon’s attacking players also made an important contribution, particularly through their pace. However, he expects captain Bryan Mbeumo to take on greater responsibility in an attacking leadership role as the campaign continues.

The former coach also offered an explanation for Cameroon’s more cautious approach after the interval. He said the team’s retreat was understandable in the circumstances, but called for substitutions that could make a stronger impact and change the rhythm of matches more decisively.

Despite those areas for improvement, Djam considers the 2-0 victory to be more than a valuable result in the standings. In his view, it reflects the emergence of a new Cameroon side with a more defined style and increased tactical clarity.

He identified two principal priorities before the return match: improving the influence of substitutes and ensuring the midfield manages the tempo more effectively so that the fast forwards can be supplied in better positions. The goalkeeper’s reassuring display and the squad’s ability to withstand pressure were further reasons for optimism.

Cameroon will soon play Namibia again in their fourth match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Djam’s message is one of confidence, but he stressed that the Indomitable Lions must maintain their concentration if they are to confirm the advantage gained in the first meeting.

The match is listed with Cameroon at 1.25 to win, a draw at 4.60 and Namibia at 11.30 by 1xbet.