AFCON 2025 Blow for Cameroon as Ambina and Castelletto Ruled Out Through Injury
Cameroon’s AFCON 2025 campaign has suffered a major setback, with two key players — Brice Ambina and Jean-Charles Castelletto — officially withdrawn from the squad due to injury. The Cameroon Football Federation confirmed the double blow as head coach David Pagou finalises his preparations for the tournament in Morocco.
Ambina, a central engine in midfield, and Castelletto, one of the team’s most reliable defenders, were both expected to play central roles for the Indomitable Lions. Their absence forces Pagou into last-minute adjustments as Cameroon look to build momentum ahead of the competition.
Replacements Called In
To plug the gaps, Pagou has turned to two in-form reinforcements:
- Arnold Mael Kamdem – the dynamic Sinop Sport Clube midfielder earning his first major tournament opportunity;
- Che Malone Fondoh – the highly rated USM Alger defender who continues to impress with his maturity and consistency.
Both players are set to link up with the national team camp immediately as the Lions ramp up their final phase of preparations.
A Setback, but Not a Surrender
While Kamdem and Malone bring fresh legs and hunger, the loss of Ambina and Castelletto undeniably dents Cameroon’s plans. Pagou will now rely on depth, adaptability, and strong leadership within the squad to keep their AFCON ambitions intact.
