David Pagou has included Ivan Jordan Nana in Cameroon’s squad for the two-match Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying meeting with Namibia.

The call-up is the latest step in a rapid rise for the 19-year-old, who captained the Cameroon U20 side to the UNIFFAC title before earning recognition from the senior team. Nana, a former Indomables Academie player and now a forward with Al Hilal of Sudan, responded to his selection in an exclusive interview with Africafoot.

The young player discussed the opportunity in three parts, beginning with the significance of representing Cameroon at senior level.

From U20 success to the senior squad

Nana’s selection comes shortly after his success with the Lions U20. Having lifted the UNIFFAC trophy as captain, he has now been given the chance to join the senior national team for the qualifiers against Namibia.

The move represents a notable progression in the player’s career. Nana has gone from leading the youth side to being considered for the first team, an advancement he views as a positive sign for what lies ahead.

His promotion also comes as he begins a new chapter at club level with Al Hilal of Sudan. The attacker’s performances and growing responsibility have been followed by his inclusion in Pagou’s plans.

Credit for the U20 coaching staff

Nana also used the interview to express his gratitude to the Cameroon U20 coaching staff.

Rather than focusing only on his own contribution, he acknowledged the people who helped him reach this stage. He particularly recognised the coach who gave him the freedom to play on the flank, a role in which he was able to express himself.

That confidence was central to Nana’s progress with the U20 team. The support of the staff helped him take on the captaincy, contribute to the team’s UNIFFAC triumph and ultimately attract a senior-team call-up.

Inspired by Cameroon’s greats

Despite his age, Nana also spoke about his motivation and the example provided by some of Cameroon’s most celebrated players.

He identified Samuel Eto’o, Roger Milla and Rigobert Song as figures who guide his ambitions. Their legacy provides a point of reference as he begins to establish himself within the national set-up.

Nana also sees himself as representing young players from academies who have not received the same level of attention. His selection for the matches against Namibia is therefore not viewed as the end of his journey, but as the beginning of a new stage in his career.