Cameroon edged past Gabon 1-0 in a closely fought Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group F match, with Karl Etta Eyong’s early goal confirmed after a VAR review.
Cameroon went into this one with background turmoil, as David Pagou took the place of Marc Brys, they got off to the perfect start inside just seven minutes.
The breakthrough came in the sixth minute when Eyong finished from close range courtesy of an assist from Mbeumo. The assistant initially flagged for offside, but a VAR check overturned the decision, allowing the goal to stand and handing the Indomitable Lions an early advantage.
Eyong celebrating his goal against Gabon. Photo Credit: Imago
Gabon responded positively and created several openings, with Denis Bouanga and Anthony Oyono both testing goalkeeper Devis Epassy, who was in assured form. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was introduced midway through the first half as Gabon sought a cutting edge, but Cameroon’s back line remained disciplined.
Chances were shared after the interval. Junior Tchamadeu went close for Cameroon early in the second half, firing over from inside the box, while Gabon’s best opportunity fell to Bouanga, whose fierce drive was superbly saved by Epassy.
Indomitable lions are five time champions of AFCON. Photo Credit:Imago
Late drama followed when a Gabon player was brought down in the box in stoppage time, but the referee waved away appeals for a penalty.
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Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Gabon could not find an equaliser. Cameroon saw out the match to claim three points, maintaining control amid a flurry of bookings and substitutions as the contest grew increasingly physical.
Gabon’s status as Group F underdogs wasn’t obvious tonight, and though they suffered their first losing AFCON opener since 2000, they’ll have some encouragement to take into matchday two, when they go up against Mozambique in a must-win clash.
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Cameroon will next face Ivory Coast, who edged Mozambique in their opening match, while Gabon’s Panthers turn their attention to a clash with the Mambas as Group F continues.
