Manchester United star Bryan Mbeumo was substituted at halftime as Cameroon defeated Mozambique 2-1 to guarantee their spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16.
It is thought that the decision was only made tactically to avoid suspension, despite concerns that the 26-year-old could have suffered an injury.
Cameroon were levelled at halftime after a Nene own goal cancelled Geny Catamo’s first goal for Mozambique.
Christian Kofane would win the game for his country in the second half but Mbeumo was not on the field to affect the outcome.
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According to Manchester Evening News, he and Carlos Baleba, a midfielder linked to United, were substituted at halftime in what was believed to be an attempt to prevent both of them from being suspended for the match against South Africa in the round of 16.
Mbeumo Received Booking In Cameroon’s First Group Match
He was booked in the first match against Gabon, and both stars received yellow cards during the group stages.
Both players would have been suspended for the next round if they had been booked again against Mozambique.
Mbeumo’s early departure from the match on New Year’s Eve coincides with the United star’s poor performance at the AFCON this winter.
The former Brentford man has not been involved in any goals since recording an assist against Gabon.
Before the Mozambique game, Cameroon head coach David Pagou admitted Mbeumo was, potentially, putting too much pressure on himself to succeed. “He’s putting too much pressure on himself, but I think he will manage that,” Pagou explained.
“He’s a great footballer, a great player, even for this country.
“He loves this team and really wants to commit to being as effective as possible.
“So today, again, in our little chat with him, the desire is there to be present, to step up, and to do great things.”
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