Cameroon Kickstart AFCON Campaign with Narrow Win Over Gabon

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AGADIR, Morocco - In a much-needed boost to their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, Cameroon secured a 1-0 victory over neighbors Gabon on Wednesday. The winning goal, scored by Karl Etta Eyong in the sixth minute, marked a promising start for the five-time AFCON winners. Eyong's goal, set up by Bryan Mbeumo, was confirmed after a VAR review. Cameroon's victory moves them alongside Ivory Coast, who defeated Mozambique, at the top of Group F. All 24 teams in the tournament have now played at least one match. Cameroon's recent struggles, including missing out on World Cup qualification and parting ways with coach Marc Brys, seemed to be put aside in their win against Gabon. The Indomitable Lions dominated the game, with Mbeumo creating several scoring opportunities for his teammates. In the second half, Junior Tchamadeu had a chance to double the lead but missed the target. Substitute Frank Magri also came close to scoring, heading the ball against the crossbar in the 79th minute. Gabon, who started without key striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang due to a thigh injury, brought on Aubameyang and Mario Lemina in the 32nd minute in an attempt to level the score. However, Aubameyang was largely ineffective, and Gabon's other chances were limited. Denis Bouanga had a few half-chances, but Cameroon's defense held strong.