Karl Toko-Ekambi announces retirement from Cameroon national team
Karl Toko-Ekambi has announced his retirement from the Cameroon national team, the Indomitable Lions, aged 31. SportsRation reports.
This decision comes after nearly a decade of dedicated service, marking the end of a significant chapter in his football journey.
Toko-Ekambi was a member of the Cameroon squad that crashed out of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast in the round of 16.
The forward announced in a post: “A fourth African Cup of Nations chapter is closing, the end of a story. Forever an indomitable lion.” The French-born striker made his international debut for Cameroon in 2015 and notably contributed to their AFCON triumph in 2017.
Having earned 61 caps for the Indomitable Lions, Toko-Ekambi registered 15 goals and three assists during his illustrious international career. His contributions included a vital role in winning Cameroon’s fifth AFCON title and a historic World Cup qualifying goal against Algeria.
The forward, who recently joined Al-Ettifaq from Abha, has had a diverse club career, playing for Villarreal, Lyon, Rennes, Sochaux, and Angers. Since August 2023, he has been showcasing his talent in Saudi Arabia, initially with Abha Club and later signing with Al-Ettifaq under the management of Steven Gerrard.
Toko-Ekambi’s decision to retire from international duty follows Cameroon’s exit from the AFCON tournament in the Round of 16, with his last match being against Nigeria. His notable achievements and contributions to the national team have left an indelible mark on Cameroonian football.
READ ALSO: Ademola Lookman fires Nigeria to victory over Cameroon to book 2023 AFCON quater-final spot