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Euro 2024 is well underway. Despite a fair few upsets in the end scores of games, all of the biggest names on the continent went through from the Group Stage. There is a case to be made for Croatia bowing out in third being a usurping of the hierarchy. Still, coming in, it was Belgium, France, the Netherlands, England, Spain, Italy, and Germany with the greatest expectations upon them.
So, the knockout stage guaranteed to deliver some incredible clashes between some of the best teams in the world, let alone Europe! What’s quite interesting is that one of the favorites being powered by a major football nation down in Africa. In fact, the spine of the team could have been eligible to play for Cameroon.
A top team powered by potential Cameroonian representatives
Starting from the back, France’s first player of Cameroonian heritage is
défenseur William Saliba.
Born in Bondy, the Arsenal center-back’s mother is from Cameroon. His father is from Lebanon. Next, it’s Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni. He’s primed to become one of the best midfielders in the world. Plus, both of his parents hail from Cameroon.
Leading the list of the world’s best footballers for many in France and beyond is
le buteur Kylian Mbappé.
He’s just left Paris Saint-Germain for Real Madrid in search of the Champions League title. Still, the Parisian is half-Cameroonian (on his father’s side) and half Algerian. The center-back, central midfielder, and striker are very much the spine of the French national team. They’ll all play a big part in any French success this year.
Favourites for the crown emerge
Of all of the teams that went through, only one did so unscathed. Spain are the conquerors of Group B with three wins in three. They also put up three goals with none going against them. It was an imperious effort. Yet, this didn’t make Spain the favorites to become European campeones again.
So, perhaps France, then? Well, there’ll be plenty of people in Cameroon looking to the
pari en ligne Premier Bet to take their 6.60 odds.
Yet, those odds were only good for third in the rankings. The team powered by players of Cameroonian heritage didn’t win Group D. Still, it’s clear to see the caliber of the lineup is primed for the title.
Instead, it was England atop the odds! Apparently, a win and two draws in Group C maintained England as the ones to beat. The Three Lions started by beating Serbia 1-0. They then drew 1-1 with Denmark. Next, it was an eventless 0-0 against Slovenia. They did get a break in the Round of 16 draw, though. They drew Slovakia instead of the Netherlands thanks to the results in Group F.
While Cameroon was never going to be at Euro 2024, it’s interesting to see its influence on one top contender.
France may not have been the outright favorites after the group, but few would deny their title credentials. Key to that is Saliba, Tchouaméni, and Mbappé.
Cameroon’s roar is reverberating through the
African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The Indomitable Lions are currently perched at the top of Group D, sharing the lead on points with Libya but boasting a superior goal difference that underscores their attacking prowess.
Their recent 4-1 victory over Cape Verde showcased their offensive strength. Captain Vincent Aboubakar spearheaded the attack with two goals, while experienced defenders like Michael Ngadeu also contributed to the scoring. This formidable offense, along with a presumably solid defense based on their recent performances, is driving Cameroon forward.
The fervent support of Cameroonian fans adds to their momentum. Playing at home, especially in the electrifying atmosphere of Stade Omnisport Roumdé Adjia, undoubtedly fuels the Lions' determination.
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Euro 2024