The absence of stars like Samuel Eto’o and Emmanuel Adebayor in the match between Togo and Cameroon has shifted the focus to other key players. Alaixys Romao, who has had a successful season with Olympique de Marseille, is highlighted for his hard work and contributions to the team. Romao, known as “Gattuso,” is considered a locker room executive for the Togo national team and has been part of the squad since 2005.
On the other hand, Nicolas Nkoulou, named the second-best defender in Ligue 1 after Thiago Silva, is a crucial player for Cameroon. Nkoulou, hailing from Yaoundé, made a name for himself at Monaco before joining Marseille, where he has excelled. He is recognized as a natural leader in the Cameroonian national team and has served as captain on occasions. Both Romao and Nkoulou are acknowledged for their quiet but impactful contributions on and off the field.