Cameroon v Gabon – Line-ups, stats and preview

Match Preview for Cameroon v Gabon

Cameroon begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a Group F clash against Gabon on Wednesday at the Stade d’Agadir.

Once regarded as one of African football’s dominant forces, the Indomitable Lions arrive in Morocco seeking to restore their standing on the continental stage, though their opening test against an in-form Gabon side is unlikely to be straightforward.

Cameroon come into the tournament on the back of a disappointing failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, missing out despite holding the African record for World Cup appearances.

That setback has intensified pressure on David Pagou’s side, who will be eager to respond positively by navigating what is widely viewed as a demanding group and mounting a deep run in the competition.

The Indomitable Lions qualified for AFCON 2025 by finishing top of their qualifying group without defeat, but concerns remain around their attacking quality, particularly after failing to score in each of their final two competitive matches.

Gabon arrive at the tournament carrying the label of dark horses, aiming to surpass their previous best AFCON finishes, which saw them reach the quarter-finals in 1996 and 2012.

Despite sitting significantly lower than Cameroon in the FIFA rankings, Thierry Mouyouma’s side are in encouraging form, having avoided defeat in regulation time in six consecutive matches.

That run includes a credible 1-1 draw against Nigeria in World Cup qualifying, reinforcing their reputation as a side capable of frustrating more fancied opponents.

Team news for Cameroon v Gabon

Cameroon have reported no major injury concerns and arrive with a full squad available, led by newly appointed captain Bryan Mbeumo.

The forward is expected to shoulder much of the attacking responsibility in the absence of Aboubakar, while goalkeeper Devis Epassy is set to start after Andre Onana was omitted from the squad.

Karl Etta Eyong could feature prominently after an impressive breakthrough season in Spain, where he has caught the eye with his goalscoring form.

Gabon will be without captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for the opening match after the forward sustained an injury during his final club appearance before the tournament.

His absence places added responsibility on Denis Bouanga, who enjoyed an outstanding season in Major League Soccer, while Mario Lemina’s experience in midfield will be key in maintaining structure and control.

Expected line-ups for Cameroon v Gabon

Cameroon: Epassy; Tchamadeu, Wooh, Boyomo, Tolo; Onana, Baleba; Mbeumo, Dina Ebimbe, Nkoudou; Magri

Gabon: Mbaba; Oyono, Ecuele Manga, Appindangoye, Ekomie; Ndong, Lemina; Bouanga, Kanga, Allevinah; Openda

How to watch Cameroon v Gabon: TV channel, online stream

Cameroon v Gabon kicks off on Wednesday at 8pm UK time. In the UK, live AFCON 2025 coverage is on Channel 4. In the USA, beIN Sports is the tournament broadcaster.

Online live streaming is available on a vast range of devices through Channel 4’s website and app and the beIN Sports app.

The stats for Cameroon v Gabon

• Cameroon failed to score in their last two competitive matches
• Cameroon topped their AFCON qualifying group unbeaten
• Gabon are making their ninth AFCON appearance
• Gabon have not lost in regulation time in their last six matches
• The last meeting between the sides ended in a 0-0 draw
• Cameroon and Gabon have shared two wins each across their last five meetings

Prediction

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