Five-time champions Cameroon began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a narrow but hard-fought 1-0 win over Gabon in Group F at Agadir on Wednesday.
An early goal proved decisive in a contest marked by intensity, tactical changes and missed chances at both ends.
Early breakthrough sets the tone
Cameroon made a fast start, pressing aggressively and looking to exploit transitions. The approach paid off inside six minutes when Karl Etta Eyong scored his first international goal on his fourth appearance.
Bryan Mbeumo latched onto a long ball from Samuel Kotto and slipped a precise pass into Eyong’s path, with the forward calmly finishing through goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba’s legs. The decision was checked and confirmed by VAR.
The goal was Cameroon’s only strike of the match, but it was enough to secure all three points. According to BBC Sport Africa, the early tempo allowed the Indomitable Lions to control large spells of the opening half.
Gabon reshuffle as Aubameyang returns
Trailing at the break, Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma made a bold move in the 33rd minute, introducing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina earlier than expected.
Aubameyang, who had been considered doubtful due to injury, was making his fifth Afcon appearance and immediately added presence to Gabon’s attack.
Royce Openda came closest to an equaliser late in the second half, forcing an excellent save from Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy after a well-weighted pass from Andre Poko.
Missed chances and late pressure
Cameroon had opportunities to extend their lead, with substitute Frank Magri heading Mbeumo’s corner against the crossbar following a slight deflection.
Gabon pushed forward in the closing stages, but poor execution in the final third proved costly. Denis Bouanga saw an effort blocked, while Mbaba denied Mbeumo again with a sharp save from a curling attempt.
Despite sustained pressure, Gabon failed to find a breakthrough. According to BBC Sport Africa, the result ensured that no match at the tournament so far has ended goalless.
Pagou’s side respond after disrupted build-up
The victory came amid a turbulent lead-up for Cameroon, with local coach David Pagou replacing Marc Brys earlier this month following administrative disputes.
High-profile absentees included Andre Onana, Vincent Aboubakar and injured midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa. Despite this, Cameroon looked composed, with Carlos Baleba controlling midfield before being forced off at half-time.
What’s next
Both teams return to action on Sunday. Cameroon face holders Ivory Coast in Marrakech, while Gabon take on Mozambique in Agadir.
The win gives Cameroon early momentum in a challenging Group F and keeps alive their hopes of another deep Afcon run.
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