Cameroon concluded their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers with a perfect record, sealing a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe at the Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé.

The victory ensured the Indomitable Lions finished at the top of Group J with 14 points, remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. Despite the loss, Zimbabwe secured second place with nine points and joined Cameroon in qualifying for the continental showpiece.

Cameroon Dominate the First Half

The Indomitable Lions started strong, showcasing their attacking prowess with two quick goals in the first 23 minutes.

• Vincent Aboubakar, the team captain, opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a thunderous strike into the top corner after a pinpoint assist from Georges-Kévin N’Koudou.

• Just five minutes later, N’Koudou doubled the lead, calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner following a rapid counterattack orchestrated by Christian Bassogog.

Cameroon’s fluid and relentless attacking play left Zimbabwe struggling to find their footing in the opening half.

Zimbabwe’s Resilient Comeback Effort

Zimbabwe showed resilience in the second half, pulling a goal back in the 73rd minute through Terrence Dzvukamanja, who unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box.

The Warriors continued to push for an equaliser, coming agonisingly close in the 81st minute when a powerful shot struck the post. However, Cameroon’s defence, led by goalkeeper André Onana, stood firm in the final stages, thwarting Zimbabwe’s late efforts.

Group J Final Standings

• Cameroon: 14 points (Qualified)

• Zimbabwe: 9 points (Qualified)

• Other teams in the group, including Kenya and Namibia, were eliminated.

Looking Ahead to AFCON 2025

Cameroon’s unbeaten run in the qualifiers highlights their readiness for AFCON 2025, where they will aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2017. Zimbabwe, returning to Africa’s premier tournament, will look to build on their strong qualifying campaign.

Stay tuned for more updates on AFCON 2025 as the tournament draws closer!

Source:TheDotNewsSports