GROUP D

Cameroon need to defeat Tunisia to ensure qualification. They can also qualify if they draw against the Eagles but they will have to rely on Zambia’s result against Gabon and goal difference. A loss would send them taking an early flight back to Yaounde.

After trailing for a long period against Zambia, the Indomitable Lions made a roaring comeback. A fortunate goal from Geremi, a clinical finish by Eto’o and a thumping header by substitute Mohammad Idrissou gave Cameroon all three points.

Somen Tchoyi was very impressive throughout the game and will be a threat to the Carthage Eagles. Mbia, Makoun and Kameni have all picked up a single yellow and will need to be careful.

For Tunisia, they game is a virtual pre-quarterfinal. They go through if they win against the Lions else they will be heading home. After having drawn their first two games and having scored just once, it will be a Herculean task to gain a win against the Lions.

Tunisia’s most creative outfield player Oussama Darragi was on the bench against Zambia nursing an injury. In his absence, Tunisia lacked bite in attack and chances were at a premium. A lot would depend on the fitness of the Esperance midfielder. The explosive forward line of Chermiti and Jemaa who have 23 international goals between them have failed to fire. Faouzi Benzarti will be hoping for them to come good in this crunch game.

Cameroon are odds-on 5/6 best and you can get 12/5 the draw and 4s Tunisia in a couple of places. The way Cameroon have played so far, you'd have to fear they may be held by a Tunisian side capable of beating most on their day. It is often dangerous to wright off a side like Cameroon, but their pre tournamnet form was nothing to get excited about. We think Tunisia can make them struggle all the way and Stan James' 5/2 Tunisia Draw No bet stands out for us.

The other game between, Gabon and Zambia also looks close on paper, with some forms going 6/4 the pair. On a value point the 2s about Gambia with BetFred is value, but Gabon have played the better football and the game migh be best watched.

Published 21-01-2010

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