Cameroon vs Gabon: Central African rivals clash in Agadir
Cameroon and Gabon begin their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 campaign on Wednesday at the Grand Stade d’Agadir, as two Central African rivals go head-to-head in a fixture that promises intensity, pride, and high stakes.
On one side stand Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions, five-time African champions and perennial contenders on the continental stage. On the other, Gabon’s Panthers, a team that has consistently pushed forward in recent years, aiming to finally secure a place among Africa’s elite.
Cameroon enter the tournament at the start of a transitional phase following the appointment of head coach David Pagou earlier this month.
The former PWD Bamenda tactician has had limited time to fully shape his squad but steps into a familiar environment, having worked closely with many of the players and members of the technical staff in the past.
Pagou has made bold decisions in selecting his final squad for Morocco, notably leaving out experienced figures such as André Onana, Vincent Aboubakar, and Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui. Leadership responsibilities have instead been entrusted to a new core featuring Christian Bassogog, Devis Epassy, and Nouhou Tolo.
Despite the changes, the Cameroonian coach insists there is no cause for concern, expressing confidence in his group’s ability to compete and to write a new chapter in the nation’s AFCON history.
Gabon, meanwhile, arrive with renewed confidence after a period of steady progression. The Panthers recently recorded their best-ever FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, reaching the playoffs before narrowly falling to Nigeria.
Under the guidance of Thierry Mouyouma, the team has found balance through a blend of experienced campaigners such as Bruno Ecuele Manga, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, André Poko, and Ibrahim Ndong, alongside emerging talents including Do Marcolino.
In Morocco, Gabon’s ambition is clear: to reach the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history.
However, they approach this opening fixture with caution, as midfielder Guelor Kanga and head coach Mouyouma are suspended, while the availability of star forward Aubameyang remains uncertain as he continues his recovery from injury.
What they said
David Pagou, Cameroon head coach:
“The atmosphere in the camp is positive. We haven’t had much time to build the team, but the feeling is good. Some players will be playing in their first AFCON, and I enjoy this kind of challenge. They are enthusiastic, hungry, and show a lot of desire. The reality on the pitch may be different, but we are preparing to compete with everyone. Cameroon is Cameroon, with our positive mindset. It’s a new team, but a strong team determined to have a good tournament.”
Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon head coach:
“Gabon are seeking revenge. We failed to qualify for the last AFCON, so being here today is an opportunity for us. Given the proximity with Cameroon, it’s a derby — and derbies are not played, they are won. We want to maintain our unbeaten record against Cameroon. We know little about this new Cameroon side, but we are focused on ourselves. The Panthers are determined.”
Match stat:
Cameroon have never scored against Gabon at the Africa Cup of Nations. In two previous meetings, Gabon recorded a 1–0 victory and a 0–0 draw against the Indomitable Lions.