Cameroon kicked off their AFCON 2025 marketing campaign with a slim however important 1-0 win over Gabon in Group F after the opening conflict in Agadir. The Indomitable Lions struck early by way of Karl Etta Eyong, whose sixth-minute end proved decisive in a tense encounter at Stade Adrar.
The match, which marked a historic AFCON assembly between the 2 Central African rivals, noticed Cameroon present composure regardless of getting into the match below heavy off-field scrutiny. SoftFootball beforehand highlighted the buildup to the fixture and the importance of the Group F opener for either side.
The early breakthrough got here after Bryan Mbeumo managed a protracted ball and teed up Etta Eyong, who completed emphatically previous Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba. VAR briefly checked the aim earlier than confirming it, handing Cameroon a lead they fiercely protected.
Mbeumo’s affect was evident all through, including to his rising fame following latest worldwide performances, whereas Group F rivals Ivory Coast additionally made a successful begin, with Amad Diallo incomes reward for his show towards Mozambique in a parallel fixture coated by SoftFootball.
Gabon responded with power after the break, boosted by the introduction of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose presence lifted the tempo and perception. Denis Bouanga and Frank Magri each went shut, whereas Devis Epassy was referred to as into motion to protect Cameroon’s benefit.
The Panthers dominated possession in spells and compelled Cameroon deep, however clear possibilities remained restricted because the Lions defended with self-discipline and expertise. Cameroon’s victory was formed towards a backdrop of instability. Teaching adjustments and the omission of senior figures created uncertainty earlier than kickoff, but the gamers remained centered.
Bryan Mbeumo received the TotalEnergies AFCON Man of the Match award for his help on the sport’s sole aim in Cameroon’s 1-0 victory over Gabon, as shared on their official X account. He has showcased his affect, contributing to 5 objectives in his final seven worldwide appearances, kickstarting the five-time champions’ marketing campaign.
Mbeumo, captaining the facet, led by instance and practically doubled the lead with a robust effort that examined Mbaba. His management stood out on an evening when Cameroon wanted calm greater than aptitude. The end result locations Cameroon stage on factors with Ivory Coast on the prime of Group F, organising a decisive showdown between the 2 heavyweights.
Gabon, in the meantime, will look to regroup rapidly after they face Mozambique, realizing their margin for error has narrowed. For Cameroon, this opening win gives momentum and perception as they chase progress in a extremely aggressive group.
