Cameroon kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a narrow but historic 1-0 victory over Gabon at the Stade d’Agadir on Wednesday, thanks to an early strike from Levante forward Etta Eyong, Bold Sports reports.
The 22-year-old wasted no time in making his mark, scoring in just the sixth minute to hand the Indomitable Lions all three points and a winning start under new head coach David Pagou, who was appointed earlier this month.
Eyong’s winning goal was assisted by Manchester United winger Bryan Mbeumo, whose perfectly weighted through ball split the Gabon defence. The young striker then showed composure, firing past goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba to give Cameroon an early advantage.
Gabon responded positively after falling behind and began to grow into the contest. Head coach Thierry Mouyouma made a bold move midway through the first half, introducing experienced duo Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina in the 33rd minute as the Panthers searched for an equaliser.
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The second half followed a similar pattern, with Gabon pressing forward in numbers. However, Cameroon remained disciplined and organised at the back, frustrating their opponents and limiting clear-cut chances. The Indomitable Lions also had opportunities to put the game beyond reach, but failed to add to their lead as the match ended 1-0.
The victory was a landmark one for Cameroon, marking their first-ever AFCON win over Gabon after previous meetings in 2010 and 2017 ended without success. Eyong’s strike was also Cameroon’s first goal against the Panthers in the competition.
Cameroon will now turn their attention to a heavyweight clash against defending champions Ivory Coast, who also began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Mozambique. The encounter is scheduled for Sunday in Marrakech.
Gabon, meanwhile, will look to bounce back when they face Mozambique on the same day, with both sides aiming to revive their AFCON hopes after opening-round defeats.
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