Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo named Man of the Match in AFCON 2025 openers

AFCON 2025 Group F:

Côte d’Ivoire 1-0 Mozambique (Amad Diallo 49')

Cameroon 1-0 Gabon (Etta Eyong 6')

At AFCON 2025, Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire were drawn into Group F alongside Gabon and Mozambique. In the opening round, Côte d’Ivoire faced Mozambique, while Cameroon took on Gabon. Both matches ended in narrow 1-0 victories, with Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo earning Man of the Match awards.

Côte d’Ivoire began their title defence against Group F’s weakest side, Mozambique. The reigning champions dominated possession and chances but were held scoreless in the first half, largely due to an outstanding performance from Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan, who made several crucial saves.

The breakthrough came early in the second half. From a header by captain Franck Kessié, Amad Diallo timed his run perfectly and finished with his right foot to score the opening goal. Despite continued pressure from both sides, no further goals were added, and Côte d’Ivoire secured their first win of AFCON 2025.

Later, Cameroon faced Gabon and struck almost immediately. Bryan Mbeumo capitalised on a loose ball from a Gabon defender before threading a precise through pass to 22-year-old Etta Eyong, who scored in his first appearance at a major international tournament.

Despite the early setback, Gabon were unable to find an equaliser. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina were both substituted as early as the 33rd minute, but Cameroon held on for a 1-0 victory. Mbeumo’s influence earned him the Man of the Match award.

In the next round, the two Manchester United teammates could face each other when Côte d’Ivoire play Cameroon on December 29 at 3:00 AM (GMT+7). In the final group matches, Cameroon will meet Mozambique, while Côte d’Ivoire face Gabon, with both games scheduled for New Year’s Day at 2:00 AM. After the group stage, the winners, runners-up and four best third-placed teams will advance to the round of 16, which begins on January 3.