Bryan Mbeumo, a 26-year-old forward, is positioned to play a central role for Cameroon in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Mbeumo, who recently transferred from Brentford to Manchester United, will serve as both the team’s primary attacking option and captain during a period of transition for the national squad.
Cameroon’s AFCON preparations have been marked by significant roster changes. New head coach David Pagou excluded veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar and experienced goalkeeper Andre Onana from the squad. Aboubakar, who scored eight goals at the 2022 AFCON, had been a consistent contributor. His absence increases the offensive responsibilities placed on Mbeumo, particularly as the team has struggled with form in recent months.
Recent match data indicates a decline in Cameroon’s attacking effectiveness. In two 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Cameroon recorded a 0-0 draw against Angola and a 1-0 loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The team failed to score in both matches, resulting in elimination from automatic World Cup qualification. These outcomes highlight deficiencies in creativity and finishing, areas where Mbeumo is now expected to contribute solutions.
Historically, Cameroon has produced high-performing strikers, including Roger Milla, Patrick Mboma, and Samuel Eto’o. The current goal drought is a deviation from this trend. In the recent qualifiers, Mbeumo started both matches but was frequently isolated and received limited service, reducing his effectiveness. The absence of Aboubakar, previously a productive attacking partner, further complicates the situation for Mbeumo as captain.
Coach Pagou has justified the squad overhaul by emphasizing a desire for a new approach and mindset. This strategy introduces additional variables for team performance, as Mbeumo must adapt to increased leadership and scoring expectations.
Team morale is currently low following the failure to qualify for the World Cup. Cameroon, which has participated in the tournament eight times, was eliminated by Cape Verde, a country with a significantly smaller population. This result has increased pressure on the team to perform at AFCON.
Mbeumo’s international career began with France at the youth level before he switched allegiance to Cameroon. He played a prominent role for Cameroon at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. At the club level, Mbeumo contributed to Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League and formed a productive partnership with Yoane Wissa. Both players scored six goals in a single match last season, a feat matched only by Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo.
Since joining Manchester United, Mbeumo has scored six goals in the current season, including two in a 4-2 win over Brighton. His performance metrics,pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring,are strong at the club level. However, replicating this output for the national team, especially as captain, remains an open question.
Cameroon is scheduled to compete in Group F against Gabon, Ivory Coast, and Mozambique. Mbeumo’s performance will be critical in addressing the team’s recent scoring issues and in providing leadership. The primary challenges are clear: improving offensive output and stabilizing team morale to meet national expectations for success.
