Cameroon’s football enthusiasts have a new star to watch, as Ian Waindim delivered a stellar performance scoring a hat-trick on Sunday 8 September 2024, leading Baker University to a 4-1 victory over McPherson College in Baldwin City, Kansas in the Hearts of America Athletic Conference.
Waindim’s first goal came in the 28th minute, opening the scoring for Bakers, wildcats. His ability to read the game and capitalize on opportunities was evident as he converted two penalties later in the match, at the 54th and 90th minutes.
Having made his way to Baker University from Bamenda, Cameroon, Waindim’s journey has been consistent. As a redshirt freshman, he already showed promise in the 2023 season, appearing in 15 games for the navy and gold, contributing to the team’s strong performance in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC). His impressive stats from 2023, where he posted a .333 shot-on-goal percentage, have clearly carried into the new season, with Sunday’s match being a highlight of his career.
As he attended Rain Forest International School in Yaoundé, where he led his team in goals and assists, his scoring prowess was particularly impressive in his senior year, where he averaged 1.5 goals per game, netting 15 goals in just 10 games.
To watch the goals click here
Given his stellar form and consistent contributions, it’s time for Cameroon’s national team scouts to take notice. With the Indomitable Lions always in search of young talent to bolster their lineup, Waindim’s name should be high on the list of players to watch. His technical skills, composure under pressure, and ability to deliver when it matters most make him an ideal candidate for future call-ups to the national team.
As Waindim continues his football journey in the United States, his Cameroonian roots remain a source of pride, and his performances abroad only strengthen his case as one of the country’s next big talents.