Afcon 2021: Cameroon reflect on semi-final exit on penalties against Egypt

Cameroon coach Toni Conceicao has described their semi-final penalty shoot-out defeat at the Africa Cup of Nations as the «harsh reality of sport».

Indomitable Lions players and fans have been left looking for answers after being beaten 3-1 by Egypt on on penalties following a 0-0 draw after extra time on Thursday.

A lack of team-work, bad luck and poor technique from 12 yards have all been cited as reasons for their exit, along with credit for the North Africans' defensive display.

The hosts, who were hoping to move a step closer to a sixth continental title, will instead face Burkina Faso in the third/fourth place play-off on Saturday (19:00 GMT).

«The goal was to win this trophy, unfortunately we failed,» goalkeeper Andre Onana said.

«It's hard when you see the way we failed because I think we were better than them. We created more chances, but unfortunately we didn't score — and when you don't score you can be in difficult situation.

»But football is strange, sometimes you don't play well and you go through, and when you play good you go out."

Conceicao said his side «suffered fatigue» as the game wore on.

«My team tried, but Egypt managed to control our offensive abilities and countered them,» the Portuguese added.

«That's why we were forced to penalties.»

Meanwhile, captain Vincent Aboubakar believes a lack of team ethic against Egypt cost his side.

«In football, you reap what you sow. We have a big team and every time we play as a team, we win,» the striker said.

«In this game, everyone wanted to show what he was capable of and here is the pay off. Whenever we are collectively strong, we win but the moment everyone tries to do what they want, we miss out.»

Cameroon missed three of their four spot-kicks in the shoot-out, with