Eyong’s early strike seals Cameroon win over Gabon in AFCON opener
Karl Etta Eyong’s early goal gave five-time champions Cameroon a 1-0 win over Gabon in their opening Group F match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Agadir.
The match was keenly contested between the Central African neighbours, with Cameroon starting on the front foot. The Indomitable Lions pressed high and moved the ball quickly, looking to catch Gabon off guard.
Their approach paid off early when Bryan Mbeumo controlled a long pass from Samuel Kotto and played a neat through ball into the box for Eyong. The Levante forward calmly slid the ball through the legs of goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba to score. The goal was checked and confirmed by the Video Assistant Referee.
Gabon tried to respond and made an early change in the 33rd minute. Coach Thierry Mouyouma brought on Mario Lemina and record goalscorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who had been expected to miss the game through injury, replacing Teddy Averlant and Eric Bocoum.
Gabon came close to equalising 18 minutes from time when Royce Openda forced a fine save from Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy after a well-weighted pass from Andre Poko.
Cameroon nearly doubled their lead soon after, as substitute Frank Magri headed Mbeumo’s corner against the crossbar, with a slight deflection off defender Jacques Ekomie.
Both teams will return to action on Sunday. Gabon will face Mozambique in Agadir, while Cameroon will take on defending champions Ivory Coast in Marrakech.
