Reactions: Cameroon 0-0 Ethiopia

Even though Both coaches made late changes; as Elias Mamo came on for Tadele Mengesha for Ethiopia and then Anthony Mfede was introduced for Atouba for Cameroon, the match led to a goalless draw at the Huye Stadium, yesterday.

Below were some reactions from the Coaches and Captains of both teams.

Yohannes Sahlie Tesema (Head Coach, Ethiopia)

We tried to correct some mistakes from the first match. I told my players that they shouldn’t fear anything and they played a good game especially Asrat Gobena.

I heard some of my players said they were tensed during the game against DR Congo, which has players from African champions, TP Mazembe; but I said to them play the game because it’s 11 against 11. I am really happy with the result. I told them (the players) to concentrate 100 percent on the match and I am totally responsible for the results.

In the second half, we tried to be more cautious by defending and just playing on the counter attack.

Cameroon has a good team in general. The players are very good and physically fit. I’m also convinced that they are tactically stronger but technically we were better.

Seyoum Tesfaye (Captain, Ethiopia)
The next match against Angola is a do or die game, which we have no choice other than winning. We do respect every team but fear none. We will try our best to win and qualify.

In football, anything is possible. We will just play to win. We are very much aware the outcome of the DR Congo – Cameroon will be vital in deciding our destiny, but we will play our part.

Ndtoungou Mpile Martin (Head Coach, Cameroon)
This was a very difficult match, and a good one. The second half was better but we had difficulties trying to convert our chances into goals. Four points from two games is not bad.

Our aim is to qualify. If you look at the standings, we are in a better position than Ethiopia and our match against DR Congo will be to confirm our qualification. I’m very sure we will qualify after the last match.

My players respected my tactics but on the pitch things were different because Ethiopia played a different game. To get a point from the game is not bad.

The team is new and I hope they will gain more experience as the tournament goes by.

Nyame Hugo Patrick (Captain, Cameroon)
The first half was tough for us as Ethiopia were very committed, and was playing for a point. This was a good match but the last game against DR Congo will be the decider.

We have learned a lot from the experience. We know that DR Congo beat Ethiopia 3-0, and the fact that Ethiopia are not here by chance. Honestly, our next match will be a great one.