Cameroon is gearing up for the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (U17 AFCON) in Morocco, with the Indomitable Young Lions determined to make a deep run in the competition.
The Cameroonian squad has been in Morocco for over a week, using the time to sharpen their skills through a series of preparatory matches.
They suffered a 3-0 defeat to Ivory Coast last Saturday but responded emphatically with an 8-3 victory over hosts Morocco on Monday, followed by a 4-3 win against Uganda on Wednesday.
These encounters have provided valuable experience as the team readies itself for the tournament’s kickoff.
Junior Abou Lopez Leads with Confidence
As Cameroon prepares for its opening match, team captain and goalkeeper Junior Abou Lopez has voiced his ambitions for the competition.
The Young Lions will face Burkina Faso on Monday, March 31, in a crucial Group B encounter, and Lopez is focused on ensuring a strong start.
“We hope to be fully prepared for our first match and will give everything to secure a victory,” Lopez said in an interview published by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
This will be Lopez’s second U17 AFCON appearance, having featured in the 2023 edition held in Algeria. With his experience, the young shot-stopper is clear about Cameroon’s objectives in Morocco.
“Our goal is to be among the teams that reach the final of this African Cup,” he affirmed.
The Road to a Third U17 AFCON Title
Cameroon is drawn into Group B, where they will compete against Burkina Faso, Egypt, and South Africa.
Navigating past the group stage will be a significant challenge, but the Young Lions are focused on claiming their third U17 AFCON title, adding to their triumphs in 2003 and 2019.
As the competition begins, all eyes will be on the Cameroonian squad to see if they can rise to the occasion and cement their place among Africa’s elite in youth football.
