Man United GK Onana axed by (Cameroon for crucial AFCON)

Man United GK Onana axed by Cameroon for crucial AFCON

Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has been excluded from Cameroon’s starting lineup for the crucial Africa Cup of Nations Group C decider against Gambia in Bouaké on Tuesday.

Onana was absent from his team’s initial group game, a 1-1 draw against Guinea last Monday, as he had received special permission to participate in United’s Premier League 2-2 draw with Tottenham on Jan. 14. However, due to adverse weather conditions, he encountered delays and missed the match after being held up at Abidjan airport.

Returning to the starting XI for Cameroon’s second game, the 27-year-old struggled, committing errors that led to two of Senegal’s goals in a disappointing 3-1 defeat for the five-time champions.

Media reports in Cameroon prior to the match hinted that head coach Rigobert Song would drop the former Ajax goalkeeper, and those predictions came true as Fabrice Ondoa, Onana’s cousin, was chosen as the country’s starting goalkeeper.

Nimes’ Ondoa, who clinched the Nations Cup with Cameroon in 2017, took the starting position for Cameroon in the absence of Onana as they faced a draw against Guinea in their initial group match in Yamoussoukro.

Despite securing only one point from their first two matches, Cameroon still has the opportunity to progress to the knockout stages by defeating Gambia on Wednesday. Failing to advance would result in their first elimination in the group stage since 2015.

Onana’s exclusion from this crucial match adds another layer to his tumultuous international career. In 2017, he chose not to represent Cameroon at the AFCON to concentrate on his club career, missing out on a championship medal. Additionally, he was dropped by coach Song during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a disagreement over the goalkeeper’s daring playing style.

Following a dispute with FA President Samuel Eto’o in 2023, Onana retired from international football but later returned to the national team in December.

Cristiano Ronaldo publicly apologized following an injury that led to the postponement of Al Nassr’s preseason tour in China. His fitness status for the upcoming match against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami on February 1 remains uncertain.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner did not provide details about the extent of his calf injury, which forced him to miss matches against Shanghai Shenhua on Wednesday and Zhejiang on Sunday.

During a news conference, Ronaldo expressed his regret, saying, “Today is a somber day for me. I want to extend my apologies to the Chinese fans, especially in Shenzhen. In football, certain things are beyond our control.”

“I’ve been in football for 22 years, and I’m not a player who frequently faces injuries. I’m truly saddened because Al Nassr and I came to China to enjoy the tour. I’ve been visiting China since 2003, 2004, and it feels like home. It’s my second home, not only due to the warm welcome from the Chinese people but also the connection I feel with the culture. I always felt welcomed, especially in this country. As you can see, I’m upset, and I know you are too, especially those who love Cristiano.”

“However, let’s look at this positively. When I say positively, I mean we haven’t canceled the game; we’ve only postponed it. We want to return to your country, and we will be back,” Ronaldo assured.

Al Nassr sought to capitalize on the midseason break in the Saudi Pro League by arranging fixtures against Chinese teams prior to a crucial match against Miami in Riyadh. This game is anticipated to be a significant moment, possibly marking the final encounter between two of the greatest-ever players in their careers.

Expressing deep respect for Chinese football fans, especially those supporting Ronaldo, Al Nassr stated, “Considering this, and acknowledging the strong relationship between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China, Al Nassr is committed to completing our training camp as scheduled in Shenzhen. The city has warmly embraced us and demonstrated immense love for our team and Captain.”

The statement further outlined the agreement with organizers and promoters to promptly reschedule a new match. Al Nassr emphasized its unwavering commitment to the event, highlighting the inclusion of the full squad, including Cristiano Ronaldo, in the tour.

The postponement of Al Nassr’s friendly match against Shanghai Shenhua in Shenzhen, announced less than 24 hours before kick-off, stirred discontent among Chinese fans at the team’s hotel. Despite the setback, the Al Nassr squad, featuring prominent players like Ronaldo, Marcelo Brozovic, Otavio, David Ospina, Aymeric Laporte, Alex Telles, and Anderson Talisca, remains in Shenzhen. Notably, Sadio Mané and Seko Fofana are currently in Ivory Coast for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Assurances were given by organizers regarding full refunds for Chinese fans covering match tickets, flights, and hotel expenses. This incident recalls previous cancellations, such as the 2016 Manchester United vs. Manchester City match in Beijing, called off due to concerns about the pitch quality at the National Stadium. Additionally, Inter Miami’s tour to mainland China in November was canceled 17 days after its announcement by the promoter.

This information incorporates contributions from the Associated Press.

On Tuesday, Uzbekistan secured a spot in the Asian Cup round of 16 alongside Australia following their 1-1 draw in the final group game. Meanwhile, Syria defeated India in another Group B encounter, earning their first-ever qualification for the knockout stage.

Australia, already assured of a top-two finish, accumulated seven points, while Uzbekistan secured the second spot with five points. Australia’s head coach, Graham Arnold, expressed satisfaction, stating, “We came here at the start of the tournament to top the group, and we’ve got the job done.” Looking ahead.

Australia initially had an early goal disallowed for offside but took the lead just before halftime with a controversial penalty awarded through VAR for a handball by Odiljon Hamrobekov. Despite the contentious decision, Martin Boyle confidently converted the penalty.

Uzbekistan’s coach, Srecko Katanec, criticized the decision, noting, “The Australian coach was honest and said it was never a penalty.” He called for a review of the connection between VAR and the referee, emphasizing the lack of intention and questioning the penalty rules.

In the 78th minute, Uzbekistan equalized when Azizbek Turgunboev headed home Jaloliddin Masharipov’s cross. In the other group match, Syria defeated India 1-0, with Omar Khribin scoring in the 76th minute. Syria, finishing with four points, secured a place in the round of 16 as one of the four best third-placed teams across all groups, marking their first knockout stage appearance since 1980.

India exited the competition without scoring a goal in three losses.

Man United GK Onana axed by Cameroon for crucial AFCON 2024

Man United GK Onana axed by Cameroon for crucial AFCON

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