Cameroon begin AFCON journey with hard fought Gabon win

Cameroon opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a sense of purpose, edging past Gabon to take an early step toward the knockout stage in Morocco.

The Indomitable Lions are under new management for the tournament, with David Pagou taking the reins after the dismissal of coach Marc Brys, and his first competitive appearance delivered both belief and points.

Cameroon only needed six minutes to go ahead through Karl Etta Eyong, who slotted home after receiving a pass from Bryan Mbeumo. The goal was first ruled out for offside before VAR stepped in and allowed the celebrations to flow.

Samuel Kotto later sent a header off target from Mbeumo’s pinpoint cross, while Denis Bouanga had a close-range effort blocked in Gabon’s best moment before the break.

Bryan Mbeumo was shown a yellow card for a bad foul in the 79th minute.

Cameroon suffered a blow when midfielder Carlos Baleba did not return for the second half due to injury, but the five-time champions stayed compact and saw out the win.

Cameroon face holders Ivory Coast next on December 28.