Namibia on a ‘mission’ to beat Cameroon

Namibia national team coach Collin Benjamin has said that his side will do all they can to feature at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament as they prepare to take on Cameroon at the Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

The Brave Warriors, as they are fondly known, picked up a vital point against Cameroon last week Friday, recording a 1-1 draw on hostile grounds.

In stepping out at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium, Namibia took the game to the Indomitable Lions with Peter Shalulile getting his name on the score sheet in the 26th minute.

In fighting back, Olivier Kemen pulled one back for Cameroon in 72nd minute, as the home team struggled to penetrate the Namibian defence.

After two matches played, Namibia recorded stalemates in both qualifying matches and occupy second spot in Group C.

Reflecting on the tie ahead, Benjamin said that his side intends on stealing more points from the African giants as they look to qualify for the popular tournament.

“Our mission was to steal points in Cameroon. Our main target, we want to go with you [Cameroon], the big boys to Afcon,” said Benjamin.

“Our mission is very clear for us. We want to go to the Afcon. Maybe, for Cameroon it's normal. It's okay. But for us, it's not normal. It takes hard work and sacrifice. It's not gonna be easy and we're gonna do this.

“We have a young team, a very hungry team, a team that wants to succeed; and to succeed, you have to play against the big boys,” said Benjamin.

“So, we are looking to get Cameroon in Johannesburg. We're going to prepare for the Indomitable Lions like we did today [Friday].”

Despite the draw, Cameroon remained top of the pile in Group C and accumulated four points after two matches played.

In the first fixture between the two nations, Cameroon dominated the affair and held up to 71 per cent ball possession during the 90 minutes.

Also, the Indomitable Lions recorded a total of 18 shots at goal, compared to just six by Namibia. Despite being more progressive on the day, Cameroon failed to convert their goalscoring opportunities.

Now as the away side, Cameroon head into the game on the back of four consecutive losses on the road in all competitions.

When asked about his job security following the 1-1 draw, Cameroon coach Rigobert Song gave reporters a stern answer and ensured that he will be in the national team’s hot seat for the foreseeable future.

“For how long have you been doing journalism?” Song said.

And for how long have I been here? What have I already done that those who were there before, didn't do when they were there? I'll be here till death.”