Cameroon opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Gabon in Agadir, putting behind them a turbulent build-up to the tournament. Karl Etta Eyong’s early strike proved decisive, while Algeria, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso also started their group-stage journeys with wins on Wednesday.
The Indomitable Lions arrived at the competition amid confusion and controversy. After Belgian coach Marc Brys was dismissed in unclear circumstances, local coach David Pagou was appointed to lead the team. However, Brys publicly claimed he had not been formally informed of his removal and even announced his own squad for the tournament. Matters were further complicated when Pagou unveiled his selection, leaving out established stars such as André Onana, Vincent Aboubakar and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.
The Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) eventually clarified the situation, but combined with the injury of Frank Zambo Anguissa and a recent World Cup play-off elimination by the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon entered the tournament under heavy pressure.
On the pitch, however, they responded convincingly. Etta Eyong scored after just six minutes, finishing calmly after Bryan Mbeumo capitalised on a defensive mix-up in the Gabon backline. The 22-year-old forward, earning his first international goal, is one of several new faces in a youthful Cameroon squad and quickly justified his inclusion.
Gabon pushed for an equaliser but struggled to break down a disciplined Cameroonian defence. The narrow win gave Pagou’s side a vital boost and suggested the team may be able to move forward despite recent instability.
In the same Group F, defending champions Ivory Coast secured a controlled 1-0 win over Mozambique in Marrakesh. Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored the only goal shortly after half-time, meeting Frank Kessié’s knockdown to beat goalkeeper Ernan Siluane.
Ivory Coast dominated much of the match, creating several chances, while Mozambique offered little attacking threat. Head coach Emerse Faé praised his team’s organisation and mentality, highlighting their defensive solidity and collective effort.
Attention now turns to a highly anticipated Group F clash between Cameroon and Ivory Coast on December 28, with both teams aiming to seal qualification for the knockout stage. Gabon and Mozambique will also meet on the same day in search of their first points.
Earlier, Algeria delivered one of the most impressive performances of the tournament so far, defeating Sudan 3-0 in Rabat. Riyad Mahrez was the standout player, scoring twice and leading a dominant display in front of passionate Algerian supporters.
Mahrez opened the scoring inside two minutes before Sudan were reduced to ten men late in the first half. Algeria took full control after the break, with Mahrez adding a second and young substitute Ibrahim Maza completing the scoring late on.
The comprehensive win underlined Algeria’s depth, balance and attacking quality, marking a strong statement of intent as they pursue their first Africa Cup of Nations title since 2019.
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