Marumo Gallants FC goalkeeper Emile Lako has received his first call-up to the Cameroon national team. The 27-year-old from Douala is part of the final 26-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers later this month.

Lako, who recently moved to the Betway Premiership side from second-tier Casric Stars, said the selection validates his hard work. "It's my first call-up. I can't explain how it feels," Lako said. "It's too good to explain. I'm feeling like I achieved something."

The call-up arrives as Marumo Gallants handle a difficult start to the domestic season. The team currently sits 16th in the Premier Soccer League with just two points from six matches. Their recent form shows one draw and four defeats in the last five games, a run you can review on our standings page. The club's defensive record has been a particular concern, having conceded 12 goals so far this season. This places significant pressure on the entire backline, including Lako, who has faced an average of 18 shots per game. The team's struggles are further highlighted by their goal difference of minus 10, the worst in the league at this stage.

Lako's rise to international recognition provides a positive note amid the club's struggles. He is now set to join Cameroon's camp ahead of key qualifiers against Comoros on 24 September and Congo on 29 September. The goalkeeper emphasised the weight of representing his country. "This badge is too heavy, but we need to play for this badge," he said. "It's the time of God. I'm busy working and training every day."

Lako will join the Indomitable Lions after Marumo Gallants' next league fixture. The club hosts second-placed Orlando Pirates this Saturday, 20 September, in a match detailed on our fixtures schedule. His departure means Gallants' coaching staff must prepare for a period without their newly capped shot-stopper. The team will be aiming to improve on their average of just 0.33 goals per game and their total of only 2 goal minutes recorded in the campaign to date.

The player himself hopes this is the beginning of a long international career. He described the moment as one he has trained and prayed for throughout his football journey. Lako's focus now shifts to impressing in Cameroon's camp and earning his first senior cap.

The report in full is at soccerladuma.co.za