Amad Diallo Goal Not Enough as Ivory Coast Hold Cameroon to AFCON Draw

Amad Diallo’s fine goal was not enough as Ivory Coast were held to a 1-1 draw by Cameroon in their Africa Cup of Nations Group F clash.

The Manchester United winger gave Ivory Coast the lead in the 51st minute with a well-taken finish. However, Cameroon responded just five minutes later when Junior Tchamadeu’s shot deflected off Ghislain Konan and went past goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

The result leaves both teams on four points after two matches and in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

The game started at a fast pace, with early chances at both ends. Ivory Coast defender Konan hit the crossbar with a dangerous cross in the opening minutes. Cameroon then created the better chances in the first half, forcing several saves and also hitting the woodwork.

Ivory Coast struggled to create clear chances before the break but almost took the lead when Vakoun Bayo headed over from close range.

The second half was equally lively. Cameroon missed a good chance through Danny Namaso, while Franck Kessie had a goal ruled out for offside at the other end.

Amad then brought some calm to the game when he ran onto a fine pass from Konan, cut inside and curled a left-footed shot into the corner to put Ivory Coast ahead.

Cameroon quickly found an equaliser they deserved. Tchamadeu’s effort took a deflection and looped over Fofana into the net.

Both sides pushed for a winner late on. Kessie forced a save from Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy, while Bryan Mbeumo’s free-kick went narrowly wide.

In the end, the points were shared, keeping both Ivory Coast and Cameroon firmly in the race for the next round.