Neilley Claude EBESSA,
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Cameroon’s 22-year-old midfielder Carlos Baleba was named TotalEnergies Man of the Match following his standout performance in the Indomitable Lions’ 2-1 Round of 16 victory over South Africa in Rabat. Baleba played a crucial role in the opening goal, taking a shot that deflected perfectly into the path of Junior Tchamadeu, who calmly finished to give Cameroon the breakthrough and set the tone for the rest of the match.
Baleba’s influence extended far beyond the assist. His energy, vision, and composure in midfield allowed Cameroon to control the tempo, even under early pressure from an enterprising Bafana Bafana side. His performance underlined why he had been named in CAF’s Group Stage Team of the Tournament earlier this week.
The midfielder’s rise has been remarkable. As recently as January 2022, Baleba was playing third-tier football for EFBC in Cameroon. A move to Lille and the confidence instilled in him by coach Paulo Fonseca changed the trajectory of his career, turning him into one of the most promising young talents in African football. Baleba has become so pivotal that Cameroon has not missed the presence of Zambo Anguissa at this tournament, with the young midfielder seamlessly filling the role in central midfield.
It’s what the coach tells us: be happy, enjoy ourselves, and be joyful on the field because we are a young team,” said Baleba. “The disappointment we experienced from missing out on the World Cup, we have brought it here to the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Playing his club football for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League, Baleba is celebrating his birthday week during his maiden AFCON tournament, making his standout display even more special.
With Cameroon progressing to the quarter-finals to face Morocco on Friday, Baleba’s form and confidence will be key if the Indomitable Lions are to continue their pursuit of a sixth continental title.
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