Ivan Jordan Nana earns surprise Cameroon call-up for Namibia qualifiers

Ivan Jordan Nana has been included in David Pagou’s Cameroon squad for the two matches against Namibia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The call-up is a major step for the 19-year-old, who recently captained the Cameroon Under-20 side to the UNIFFAC title. He has also just joined Al Hilal of Sudan after previously developing at Indomables Academie.

Nana responded to his selection in an exclusive interview with Africafoot, discussing the significance of representing Cameroon, his gratitude towards the Under-20 coaching staff and his ambitions for the future.

Pride at senior international selection

The young player’s promotion to the senior squad comes shortly after his success with the Under-20 team.

Having led Cameroon to the UNIFFAC championship, Nana has now been given the opportunity to train and compete alongside the national team’s senior players. His selection has marked a rapid rise and, in his own assessment, offers a positive sign for the next stage of his career.

The winger has not taken the opportunity for granted, with the chance to wear the national shirt representing an important moment in his development.

Thanks for Under-20 support

Nana also recognised the contribution of the Cameroon Under-20 staff to his progress.

Rather than focusing solely on his own achievements, he paid tribute to the coach who allowed him the freedom to express himself on the flank. That trust helped him establish himself in the team, take on the captaincy and play a part in the side’s UNIFFAC triumph.

The same progress has now led to his first call-up under Pagou, creating a direct link between his performances at youth level and his promotion to the senior squad.

Inspired by Cameroon greats

Despite his age, Nana spoke with a clear sense of responsibility about what lies ahead.

He identified Samuel Eto’o, Roger Milla and Rigobert Song as sources of inspiration, while also presenting himself as a representative of young players from academies who receive little attention.

For Nana, the matches against Namibia are not the conclusion of his journey but the beginning of a new chapter. At 19, he sees the selection as an opportunity to build on his Under-20 success and establish himself at senior international level.