Five-time champions Cameroon secured a narrow 1–0 victory over Gabon in a tense Group F encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday in Agadir.
Spain-based striker Karl Etta Eyong struck just six minutes into the match, a goal that proved decisive and earned the Indomitable Lions all three points. The win brings Cameroon level on points with defending champions Ivory Coast, who earlier edged Mozambique 1–0 in Marrakesh.
The result marked Cameroon’s first AFCON victory over Gabon, having previously lost in 2010 and drawn in 2017 against their Central African neighbours.
Both teams came into the contest seeking redemption after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gabon were heavily beaten by Nigeria in last month’s play-offs, while Cameroon were eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo after conceding a late goal.
The match also signalled the debut of new Cameroon head coach David Pagou, following the dismissal of Belgian tactician Marc Brys amid a prolonged leadership dispute between the football federation and its president, Samuel Eto’o.
Pagou made bold selection choices, notably leaving out goalkeeper Andre Onana and veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar. He also introduced a shared captaincy system, with Nouhou Tolo leading the team on the night.
Cameroon wasted little time asserting themselves as Bryan Mbeumo provided a perfectly weighted pass for Etta Eyong, who showed great composure to slot the ball between the legs of Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba. The goal was briefly delayed by a VAR review for offside before being confirmed.
Gabon introduced star forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the 33rd minute despite earlier injury concerns, adding firepower alongside Denis Bouanga. However, Cameroon remained the more dangerous side, creating the better chances and holding firm defensively to secure the win.
Cameroon will now look to build on this momentum as Group F continues, while Gabon face an uphill task to keep their AFCON hopes alive.
