AFCON 2025: Mbeumo says Cameroon Will Be Ready for Côte d’Ivoire after Historic Win Over Gabon
Bryan Mbeumo expressed his delight after being named Man of the Match in Cameroon’s opening Africa Cup of Nations victory over Gabon, stressing that the Indomitable Lions must be fully prepared for their next clash against Côte d’Ivoire.
‘I’m very happy. The team played a good game. We were solid and we’re pleased with the victory. We knew Gabon would be a difficult opponent, but against Côte d’Ivoire we will have to be ready because we know they are a very strong team. We stayed focused and very solid. Everyone defended well and worked hard for each other, and that produced a good result,’ he said.
Cameroon made history in Agadir, claiming their first-ever AFCON win against their Central African neighbours thanks to Karl Etta Eyong’s early strike.
The decisive moment came in the sixth minute when Bryan Mbeumo capitalized on a defensive lapse, threading a precise ball to Eyong, who calmly slotted past Marius Mbamba. The Indomitable Lions maintained control in the first half, while Gabon struggled to find rhythm despite the introduction of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina.
In the second half, Cameroon’s resilience was tested as Carlos Baleba left injured, but they continued to create chances, with Baptiste Tchamadeu firing over and Mbeumo denied by Mbamba.
Gabon pressed late, yet Devis Epassy’s crucial save and Frank Magri’s effort against the crossbar ensured Cameroon held firm. With disciplined game management, the Lions secured a 1-0 win that places them level with Côte d’Ivoire at the top of Group F.
