Cameroon are desperate to reclaim their status as one of the top nations in the continent when they take on Gabon in their AFCON 2025 opener.
In a Group F that also features champions Ivory Coast and Mozambique, the Indomitable Lions must get their campaign off to a winning start.
After failing to qualify for the World Cup, despite having the record for appearances for an African side, Cameroon must make it out of the proverbial group of death.
Gabon’s quarterfinal appearances in 1996 and 2012 remain their best ever performances at the continental showpiece. Based on recent form, Gabon have the edge and will be full of confidence when they take on an inconsistent Cameroon outfit.
Here are all the key details of the highly anticipated match as well as our betting prediction.
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Team news
The biggest shock was the exclusion of veteran forward Vincent Aboubakar. With that, Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has been named the new captain and will lead the attacking line. Cameroon have a fully fit squad to choose from and notable names such as Georges Nkoudou and Frank Magri expected to start as well.
Gabon will have to do without the services of their captain Pierre Emerick Aubameyang who is ruled out of the first game with a knock. Denis Bouanga, who has scored 26 goals in 34 games in the MLS, will be the headline in the Gabon attack.
Head-to-head and current form
The most recent match between these two sides was a goalless draw in the 2017 edition of the tournament. Gabon come into the game on a better run of form, winning three and losing just once in their last five matches.
Current form
Cameroon – LDWLW
Gabon – LWWDW
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Previous games
Cameroon 0-0 Gabon (AFCON, Jan 22, 2017)
Cameroon 2-1 Gabon (Friendly, Sept 16, 2016)
Gabon 0(2) – 0(0) Cameroon (CHAN, Aug 10, 2013)
Cameroon 1-0 Gabon (2013)
Cameroon 0-1 Gabon (AFCON, Jan 13, 2010)
Prediction
Despite being superior in recent years, Cameroon come into the game as the more likely side to drop points. Gabon have scored 11 goals in their last five matches and are expected to get on the score sheet here as well.
Over 1.5 goals provides a worthy option for this game.
Photo: Eto Etu/Gallo Images
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