In a tense and historic Africa Cup of Nations encounter, Cameroon secured a vital 1-0 victory over their central African rivals, Gabon, on Wednesday in Agadir. The match, which marked the debut of new coach David Pagou, was decided by an early strike from Spain-based forward Karl Etta Eyong.
Early Goal Settles Tense Derby
The Indomitable Lions needed just six minutes to break the deadlock in their Group F opener. Karl Etta Eyong, who plays for La Liga side Levante, found the back of the net, although his celebrations were put on hold for a lengthy Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check for a potential offside. The goal was eventually confirmed, sending the Cameroonian fans into raptures.
The move was orchestrated by Manchester United striker Bryan Mbeumo, who delivered a superb pass. Etta Eyong's intelligent movement off the ball created the necessary space, and he finished coolly, slotting the ball between the legs of Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba.
Pagou's New Era Begins with Key Decisions
This match was the first in charge for new Cameroon boss David Pagou. His appointment followed a protracted feud between football federation president Samuel Eto'o and former coach Marc Brys, which led to the Belgian's dismissal. Pagou immediately made bold selection calls, surprising many by omitting goalkeeper Andre Onana and veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar from his AFCON squad.
There was further intrigue around the team's leadership. After initially naming Mbeumo as captain, it was announced that three players—goalkeeper Devis Epassy, defender Nouhou Tolo, and striker Christian Bassogog—would share the captaincy. Nouhou Tolo wore the armband for this crucial fixture against Gabon.
Historical Win and Group F Implications
The 1-0 result is significant for Cameroon, as it marks the first time they have beaten Gabon in the Africa Cup of Nations. Their previous meetings included a loss in 2010 and a draw in 2017. The three points earned from this hard-fought victory bring Cameroon level in Group F with the defending champions, Ivory Coast, who edged Mozambique 1-0 in Marrakesh.
Both nations entered the tournament seeking redemption after the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gabon suffered a heavy play-off defeat to Nigeria last month, while Cameroon conceded a late goal to be eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite the second-half introduction of Gabon's star striker and former African Player of the Year, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang—who was a doubt with a knock from his club Marseille—and the threat of LAFC's Denis Bouanga, it was Cameroon who looked the more likely to add to their tally as the game progressed.
