Cameroon defeat Gabon after troubled AFCON build-up

Despite a turbulent build-up marked by a late coaching change, Cameroon opened their 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Gabon in their Group F opener at the Stade d’Agadir.

The Indomitable Lions arrived in Morocco amid off-field uncertainty following the dismissal of head coach Marc Brys on the eve of the tournament.

David Pagou was subsequently appointed to lead the team, after an earlier standoff that saw Brys initially refuse to step aside and even announce a provisional squad. However, the list eventually approved by Cameroonian Football Federation president Samuel Eto’o was the one that made the trip.

Despite the absence of high-profile names such as Vincent Aboubakar, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and goalkeeper Andre Onana, Cameroon showed composure on the pitch and secured all three points.

The decisive moment came in the ninth minute when Karl Etta Eyong found the net after being set up by Bryan Mbeumo. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was later awarded following a VAR review.

Cameroon continued to push for a second goal, with Samuel Kotto heading wide from another precise Mbeumo delivery. Gabon’s best opportunity of the first half fell to Denis Bouanga, whose close-range effort was blocked at a crucial moment.

The five-time African champions were dealt a setback early in the second half when Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba was forced off through injury. However, Cameroon remained organised and disciplined as they protected their slender lead.

Gabon threatened again just after the hour mark, but Bouanga slipped at a key moment when well placed to score. Cameroon nearly doubled their advantage when Frank Magri struck the crossbar, though the single goal ultimately proved sufficient.

The victory marked a positive start for Cameroon in a tightly contested match that produced few clear-cut chances. Cameroon registered 13 attempts on goal compared to Gabon’s 12 and slightly edged the expected goals tally.

The result also ended Gabon’s impressive run of five unbeaten AFCON opening matches, while Cameroon moved level on points with defending champions Ivory Coast at the top of Group F. Both sides are set to meet in a highly anticipated clash on Sunday.