Spain-based striker Karl Etta Eyong struck six minutes into Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations clash to give five-time champions Cameroon a 1-0 victory over Gabon in Agadir.
The early goal secured Cameroon three points, putting them level in Group F with defending champions Ivory Coast, who edged Mozambique 1-0 in Marrakesh earlier.
It was Cameroon’s first AFCON victory over central African neighbours Gabon, following a 2010 loss and a 2017 draw.
Both teams entered the match seeking consolation after missing out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Last month, Gabon suffered a heavy defeat to Nigeria in the play-offs, while Cameroon conceded a late goal to be eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The match also marked the debut of Cameroon coach David Pagou, following a prolonged feud between football federation president Samuel Eto’o and former coach Marc Brys, which led to the Belgian tactician’s dismissal.
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Pagou made headlines by dropping goalkeeper André Onana, on loan at Trabzonspor from Manchester United, and veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar from the AFCON squad.
There was initial confusion over the team captaincy. Manchester United striker Bryan Mbeumo was first named, but the role was eventually shared among goalkeeper Devis Epassy, defender Nouhou Tolo, and striker Christian Bassogog, with Tolo leading the Indomitable Lions against Gabon.
Cameroon went ahead through Etta Eyong of La Liga side Levante, though the goal celebration was delayed by a VAR review for a possible offside. Mbeumo provided the assist with a precise pass, allowing Etta Eyong to exploit space and slot the ball between the legs of goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba.
Gabon’s star striker and 2015 African Player of the Year Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, reportedly doubtful due to a knock sustained while playing for Marseille, entered the game in the 33rd minute.
Despite the presence of Aubameyang and regular Los Angeles FC scorer Denis Bouanga, Cameroon remained the more threatening side throughout, continuously creating the better scoring opportunities.
