Darlin Yongwa’s return boosts competition for left-back spot in Cameroon squad

Darlin Yongwa’s return to the Cameroon national team has rekindled competition for the left-back position, providing fresh impetus under coach Marc Brys. After a lengthy absence following the team’s elimination at the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Yongwa’s inclusion has reintroduced healthy rivalry on the left flank of Cameroon’s defense.

During the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, former coach Rigobert Song nurtured a competitive atmosphere between Yongwa and Nouhou Tolo, the established left-back.

The pair often alternated in the starting lineup, each bringing distinct qualities to the team.

While Tolo was known for his solid defensive attributes, Yongwa excelled with his offensive contributions and technical skills, providing coach Song with two diverse options depending on the tactical demands of each match.

However, since Marc Brys took over as head coach, Yongwa’s absence from the squad had seemingly placed Tolo in a more comfortable, undisputed position, disrupting the previous dynamic of competition.

Yongwa’s return to the fold aims to reinvigorate the battle for the left-back spot. The 24-year-old defender has been in excellent form for FC Lorient, where he has become a key figure in the team.

With 12 appearances in Ligue 2 this season and 4 assists, Yongwa has continued to impress with his versatility and attacking contributions.

He is capable of playing as a full-back or as a wing-back, offering both defensive solidity and offensive creativity.

His ability to contribute to the team’s offensive play makes him a valuable asset to coach Brys’s tactical setup, particularly in his efficient use of the left flank in ball progression.

Under Brys’s guidance, Yongwa is expected to find greater freedom in the system, with the coach’s emphasis on using the full width of the pitch for effective ball exits.

While Marc Brys has occasionally fielded central defenders as makeshift full-backs in the absence of Tolo, Yongwa’s return offers a more specialized solution to the team’s left-back conundrum.

With both Yongwa and Tolo now vying for the same position, the competition on the left flank is set to intensify.

The decision of who starts will ultimately depend on the specific challenges posed by upcoming opponents, but one thing is certain: Yongwa’s return is a significant boost for Cameroon’s defensive depth and the overall competitiveness of the squad.