Cameroon made a confident start to their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a narrow but well-managed 1–0 victory over Gabon in Agadir, laying down an early marker in a competitive group.

The decisive goal arrived inside the opening six minutes. Young forward Karl Etta Eyong struck clinically after a precise assist from Bryan Mbeumo, giving the Indomitable Lions an early advantage they would not relinquish.

Under head coach David Pagou, Cameroon adopted a pragmatic approach — simplifying their build-up play, winning second balls and maintaining positional discipline. It was not always spectacular, but it was effective, allowing them to control the rhythm of the match and frustrate their opponents.

Gabon attempted to change the momentum with the introduction of star names Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina shortly after the half-hour mark. However, even their experience and attacking quality failed to break down a well-organised Cameroonian defence.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Cameroon - Gabon 1:0 (1:0)
Goals: Eyong, 6 (1:0)

Cameroon: Epassy; Tchamadeu; Che Malone; Tolo; Yongwa; Kotto; Baleba (Onana J., 46); Avon; Eyong (Magri, 67); Mbeumo; Namaso (Dina Ebimbe, 68)
Substitution: Onana J. (from 46); Magri (from 67); Dina Ebimbe (from 68)
Bench: Omossola; Ngapandouetnbu; Wooh C.; Nyamsi; Nagida; Boyomo; Ndzie; Nkoudou; Bassogog; Kemen; Kofane

Gabon: Oyono; Moucketou-Moussounda; Manga B.; Ekomie; Poko; Bouanga; Ndong D.; Averlant (Aubameyang, 33); Bocoum (Lemina, 33); Openda
Substitution: Lemina (from 33); Aubameyang (from 33)
Bench: Appindangoyé; M'Bemba Y.; Kanga Kaku; Babicka; Allevinah
Yellow Cards: Ndong D. 22