Staff Reporter.
Namibia moved top of Group C in their latest 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, claiming a famous 2-1 win over a star-studded Cameroon outfit at the Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
Namibia were quick out of the blocks during the early stages of the game and went on the attack as soon as the first-half whistle was blown. Also, the home team created a couple of goal scoring opportunities before the 10 minute mark, which was stuffed by the Cameroonian backline.
There was little to separate the two teams after 15 minutes on the clock, however, the Indomitable Lions began making their presence known high up the pitch.
Cameroon took control of the game after the half-hour mark and increased their dominance on the ball. In having up to 60 per cent ball possession, Rigobert Song’s side gained momentum with the halftime whistle on the horizon.
However, Namibia and Cameroon failed to convert their chances as the referee called time on the first 45.
The subsequent half got off to a frantic pace, as Namibia appeared to be the more progressive of the two sides. Namibia’s pressure paid off in the 54th minute as Peter Shalulile scored yet another goal against the Indomitable Lions.
In saving a powerful shot at goal, Devis Epassy parried the ball into the six-yard area as Shalulile showcased his predatory instincts by beating his opposition marker to the ball and slotted the ball away with ease.
Along with their advancements up the pitch, Namibia looked assured in defensive settings around the 70th minute mark.
Cameroon looked shaky under pressure as the likes of Shalulile and Edmar Kamatuka forced the opposing backline to commit fouls in dangerous positions.
After being awarded a free-kick on the edge of the Cameroon box, Absalom Limbondi’s shot was threaded through the wall and gave his nation a 2-0 lead in the 79th minute.
Vincent Aboubakar managed to score a consolation goal for Cameroon deep into stoppage time. However, it was not to be for the five-time African champions, as Namibia claimed a memorable 2-1 win.
Meanwhile Cape Verde took a step closer to securing qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow 1-0 victory over Eswatini at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, South Africa on Tuesday afternoon.
Elsewhere Egypt took a major step toward qualification for the next Africa Cup of Nations when they crushed hosts Malawi 4-0 at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Tuesday afternoon.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.