Cameroon made a winning start to their Africa Cup of Nations Group F campaign with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Gabon at Stade d’Agadir, relying on an early strike and disciplined defending to see out the contest.
The decisive moment arrived in the sixth minute when Karl Etta Eyong finished confidently from the right side of the box after being slipped through by Bryan Mbeumo. The goal was initially checked by VAR before being awarded, giving the Indomitable Lions an early advantage and setting the tone for a tense evening.
Gabon responded with urgency and enjoyed spells of pressure, pushing numbers forward through Denis Bouanga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. However, Cameroon’s back line remained organised, with goalkeeper Devis Epassy alert when called upon to deny several long range efforts.
The match grew increasingly physical as both sides battled for control in midfield, leading to a flurry of fouls and yellow cards. Cameroon had chances to extend their lead, with Frank Magri and Bryan Mbeumo going close from crosses and set pieces, but Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba kept his side in contention.
In the second half, Gabon pressed higher in search of an equaliser, creating moments of danger through Mario Lemina and Bouanga, yet clear cut chances were limited. Cameroon absorbed the pressure effectively, slowing the tempo and breaking up play whenever Gabon threatened to build momentum.
As the clock ticked down, Cameroon defended deep and managed the closing stages with composure, seeing out four minutes of added time to secure all three points. The victory gives Cameroon a solid platform in Group F, while Gabon are left to reflect on missed opportunities as they look ahead to their next fixture.
