No new rift with Onana, says Cameroon coach

Cameroon coach Rigobert Song denied any new rift with goalkeeper Andre Onana, who was dropped for their last match at the Africa Cup of Nations finals and could be on the bench again on Saturday against Nigeria.

Onana had left Cameroon during the World Cup finals in Qatar 14 months ago after a disagreement with Song, but he returned in September to help the team qualify for the tournament in Ivory Coast.

He was allowed to miss Cameroon's first match against Tottenham Hotspur on January 14 to play for Manchester United, but he did play in the Indomitable Lions' second Group C game against Senegal, conceding three goals and being dropped for their final group game against Gambia on Tuesday.

"I have no problem with my goalkeepers. They are all competitive and ready to respond when they need to play. There is no controversy. They get along very well," Song said at a press conference on Friday, without mentioning whether Onana would return to goal for the last-16 game on Saturday.

Song stated that defence would be crucial against Nigeria, whose powerful attack is led by African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen.

"We have already conceded six goals and tomorrow we will find the formula to not concede," added Song.

"We will try to put Nigeria in difficulty and fight to continue in the competition. I know what needs to be done so that we do everything possible tomorrow to obtain a positive result."

SportsLigue