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Cameroon began their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a moment of history as Karl Etta Eyong’s early goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Gabon in Agadir, their first ever AFCON win against their Central African neighbours.
The Indomitable Lions struck almost immediately, punishing a shaky Gabonese start. In the sixth minute, Bryan Mbeumo pounced on a loose defensive header before slipping a precise pass into Eyong’s path. The forward kept his nerve, guiding a low finish between goalkeeper Marius Mbamba’s legs to set the tone for the night.
Cameroon remained the sharper side in the opening exchanges, with Gabon struggling to settle. Denis Bouanga flashed a shot narrowly wide as the Panthers tried to respond, while Danny Namaso went close at the other end with a header that drifted past the post.
Sensing danger, Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma turned to his bench before the break, introducing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina. Cameroon adjusted intelligently, dropping into a more compact shape and nearly doubled their lead when Darlin Yongwa’s run was halted by a last-ditch tackle.
The second half tested Cameroon’s resolve. Carlos Baleba was forced off injured, but chances continued to fall their way, with Baptiste Tchamadeu blazing over before Mbamba denied Mbeumo with a fine save.
Gabon pressed late, but Cameroon’s defence stood firm. Devis Epassy made a vital stop from Omva Oyono, while Frank Magri rattled the crossbar on the counter. Calm game management saw Cameroon close out a disciplined victory that places them alongside Côte d’Ivoire at the top of Group F.
REACTIONS:
Bryan Mbeumo, Man of the Match: “I’m very happy. The team played a good game. We were solid and we’re pleased with the victory. We knew Gabon would be a difficult opponent, but against Côte d’Ivoire we will have to be ready because we know they are a very strong team. We stayed focused and very solid. Everyone defended well and worked hard for each other, and that produced a good result.”
Cédric Moubamba, Gabon assistant coach: “We didn’t have a good start to the match, which made things difficult for us. We conceded a goal from a clearance and a poor defensive alignment. The introductions of Aubameyang and Lemina were planned, but the course of the match meant they came on earlier. And we saw how much they helped us with their experience. We were determined to win the match. But there is a truth on the pitch. Cameroon played well and defended their lead well. It’s up to us to get back to work and improve for the next game.”
David Pagou, Cameroon coach: “It was hard work, not easy. We came here to take the three points. We got the job done. That’s the most important thing. We played in a very flexible system, both defensively and offensively. It still needs to be refined, but the players delivered. It’s a young group and we keep working. We accept the mistakes that were made, but we have a big margin for improvement.We won this match mentally. We will continue to improve because there is quality.”
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