Bryan Mbeumo has expressed his disappointment after Cameroon were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations, losing 2-0 to Morocco in the quarter-finals. The Manchester United forward is now set to return to Old Trafford in the coming days.
Speaking after the defeat, Mbeumo said: “I am really sad. Unfortunately, in the first half, we were a bit reluctant to play, and I think that is one of the only regrets we can have tonight. Because, for me, the second half was under control apart from the goal they scored. But that is part of the game, and we knew what to expect. We didn't play our football and we saw in the second half that we were a much better team on the ball and we made them adapt a lot. They took their chances and congratulations to them.”
Cameroon head coach David Pagou also reflected on the tournament exit. He said: “I am proud of my players. We competed well against Morocco and we leave the tournament with our heads held high. We faced some difficulties, but we came back well in the second half. The second goal we conceded decided the match. Overall, I am satisfied with the performance. We have a young and new squad, and the players deserve credit for their efforts for the Cameroonian people. There is a bright future for our young players, many of whom are playing in continental competition for the first time. We have learned many lessons and leave the tournament with a lot of positives.”
Mbeumo's return comes amid a major overhaul at Manchester United, with Ruben Amorim sacked and talks ongoing with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer regarding a second stint as interim boss. Sunday’s FA Cup clash with Brighton looks set to come too soon for Mbeumo, but there is hope he could be available for next weekend’s Manchester derby. The forward, signed from Brentford last summer, has scored seven goals in 17 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils.
