Start At Their Best

The 26-man list released by David Pagou for the first two match days of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers looked unusual to some, but to others it was a sign that the Lions’ technical staff is doing a great job in scouting. To the latter group, the coach is expanding the team’s database and giving every Cameroonian player who pos­ sesses the Indomitable Lions’ spirit an opportunity to show his talent. Coach David Pagou was, however, clear during the press conference announcing the list that some of the qualities he looks for in a player are deter­ mination, discipline, rigour, and a strong desire to work. This perhaps means that any Cameroonian or binational player who meets these criteria and has shown willin­ gness to defend the national colours may be given a chance. Taking these and other professional factors into consideration, Coach David Pagou decided to leave out some usuals, retain some, and bring in new faces as well. As usual, tongues began wagging about why he chose one player and left out another. But when he released the list, Coach David Pagou appeared confident and ready to accept the outcome of his choices. Football fans want success, and whoever can bring that success is the one who is needed. Whether a player is a renowned name or not, the objective remains the same. It is now up to the players to prove that Coach David Pa­ gou did not make a mistake in selecting them. The qua­ lifiers are just starting, but it is crucial to begin gathering necessary points now to avoid c...