Gambia vs Cameroon Prediction: A must win match for Cameroon

The Stade Bouake is set for a pivotal Group D encounter at the Africa Cup of Nations as Gambia and Cameroon go head-to-head on Tuesday. With both teams teetering on the edge of elimination from the 2023 AFCON, the Scorpions aim to disrupt the aspirations of the Indomitable Lions, who still harbor hopes of advancing in the tournament.

Gambia's aspirations in the AFCON 2023 have dimmed following a second consecutive defeat, suffering a 1-0 loss to Guinea's National Elephants in their Group F clash. Despite launching seven attempts on goal, the Scorpions failed to equalize after Aguibou Camara's 69th-minute strike. Tom Saintfiet's team, having previously lost 3-0 to Senegal in their opening match, find themselves without a point or a goal in the tournament. The upcoming final group game against Cameroon provides a slim opportunity to salvage some pride, aiming to secure their first points and goal. However, historical records offer little optimism, as the West Africans have lost all three previous encounters with the Indomitable Lions, including their last meeting in the knockout stage of the 2022 AFCON tournament.

Cameroon initiated their AFCON campaign with a 1-1 draw against Guinea, but a subsequent 3-1 defeat to Senegal on matchday two has left their prospects of qualifying for the round of 16 in a precarious position. Ismaila Sarr's deflected strike and Habib Diallo's clinical finish propelled the Indomitable Lions to a two-goal deficit with only 20 minutes remaining. While Jean-Charles Castelletto's late header in the 83rd minute offered a glimmer of hope, Sadio Mane's stoppage-time goal dashed any lingering dreams of a comeback.

Rigobert Song's squad currently holds just one point from two games, putting them in a must-win scenario against Gambia for a chance to progress to the knockout stage. However, even a victory doesn't assure automatic qualification for Cameroon. Their advancement hinges on Senegal defeating Guinea, increasing the possibility of Cameroon securing a spot in the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams if they fall short of finishing in the second position.

In the history of encounters between Gambia and Cameroon, there have been three meetings, all of which were won by the Indomitable Lions. The most recent clash took place in the quarterfinals of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, where Cameroon emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. Gambia has struggled to find the back of the net in all three fixtures against Cameroon. However, it's worth noting that the Indomitable Lions have not kept a clean sheet in their last four games. In the current tournament, the Scorpions are the only team in Group C yet to score any goals.

Gambia possible starting lineup:

Gaye; Janko, Gomez, Colley, Touray; Manneh, Marr, Darboe; Fadera, Barrow; Sowe

Cameroon possible starting lineup:

Onana; Yongwa, Wooh, Moukoudi, Castelletto; Anguissa, Kemen, Ntcham; Koudou, Ekambi, Magri

Gambia is currently grappling with a four-game losing streak and has managed to secure only two victories in their last 10 matches across all competitions. Their struggle extends to this particular fixture, as they are yet to register a win and will be eager to break that streak in Tuesday's match. On the other hand, Cameroon recently halted a four-game unbeaten streak and is keen on bouncing back with a strong performance this week. The considerable difference in class and quality between the two teams suggests that the Indomitable Lions are likely to emerge victorious in this encounter.