Cameroon still tops its group, but the results no longer hide the questions surrounding David Pagou’s work. The Lions remain well placed in the standings, yet their performances lack consistency, identity and control. As the decisive clash with Côte d’Ivoire approaches, the coach faces increasing scrutiny over his tactical choices and the direction of the team.
For several matches, Cameroon has struggled to impose a clear style. The Lions fight and create moments of dominance, but they rarely control games for long periods. Their build-up play lacks precision, the midfield often fails to connect with the attack, and the forwards frequently rely on individual brilliance. The defense can also become exposed, leaving the team looking fragmented rather than built around a clear collective plan. Player selection adds another layer of debate, with the cases of Nsongo, Nagida, Harouna Djibirin and Darlin Yongwa raising questions about the criteria behind Pagou’s choices.
The coach also faces the challenge of turning tactical adjustments into genuine progress. Changing players or systems alone will not solve recurring problems. Cameroon needs to defend as a unit, improve its build-up, create more connections between the lines, control the midfield and generate more dangerous chances. The match against Côte d’Ivoire will offer an important test of that progress. Beyond the result, the Lions will need to show whether they can dictate the tempo, manage transitions and produce a more cohesive attacking game.
David Pagou still has the advantage of leading the group, but the standings cannot answer every question. The coming clash will provide a clearer picture of his project and the team’s development. Cameroon is not only looking for another result; it needs to show how it wants to win and demonstrate that its performances can match its position in the table.
