Pfister guided Ghana to the final 16 years ago

"It's one of the highlights of my career," said the 70-year-old Pfister, "but that's the life of a coach, winning or losing."

The only other time Pfister has reached the Cup of Nations final was as coach of Ghana 16 years ago.

"I was never as sad in my career as I'm now," said Ghana coach Claude Le Roy.

In the end it was our mental strength that got us through Cameroon goalscorer Alain Nkong

"It's a terrible disappointment to lose this game. I can understand how sad the people of Ghana are."

Frenchman Le Roy blamed injuries and suspensions for Ghana's defeat.

"This game was very difficult to prepare for. I had John Mensah out suspended, then Asamoah Gyan said he couldn't play.

"And 15 minutes before kick-off, Laryea Kingston gets injured."

Cameroon's winning goal was scored by substitute Alain Nkong and Pfister attributed the Indomitable Lion's victory to the strength of his squad.

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"Cameroon has the best bench in the tournament," said the German coach. "There's no difference between each player."

Goalscorer Nkong pinpointed Cameroon's opening defeat to Egypt in the group stages as key to their success in reaching the final.

"We waited and waited and we hit them on the break," said Nkong said.

"In the end it was our mental strength that got us through. We were criticised so much after the first match. Every match has been a final for us since then."