Cameroon secured second place in Group F with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mozambique in Agadir, though the Mambas also progressed to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams.
Mozambique, seeking to build on their historic first-ever AFCON victory over Gabon, made a bright start and took a deserved lead in the 23rd minute. Geny Catamo curled home a superb effort, capitalising on positive play from the Mambas to stun the five-time champions.
The Indomitable Lions’ response was swift. Just five minutes later, Cameroon drew level through fortuitous circumstances when Nené turned the ball into his own net under intense pressure from the attacking Lions. The own goal restored parity and shifted momentum firmly in Cameroon’s favour.
The decisive moment arrived 10 minutes into the second half when Christian Kofane produced a moment of individual brilliance. The midfielder unleashed a thunderous long-range strike that clipped the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line, giving Cameroon the lead for the first time in the match.
Mozambique pushed desperately for an equaliser, with goalkeeper Hermani Siluane—who had made eight saves in their victory over Gabon—frequently venturing forward. However, Cameroon managed the closing stages professionally, seeing out the victory to secure their place in the knockout stages.
The result sees Cameroon finish level on seven points with Côte d’Ivoire but miss out on top spot due to an inferior goals scored record, having netted four to the Elephants’ five. They will now face South Africa in the Round of 16, a fixture that promises to test their credentials as they pursue a sixth continental title.
Despite the defeat, Mozambique’s three points proved sufficient to qualify as one of the four best third-placed teams, marking their first-ever progression beyond the AFCON group stages.
The Mambas will face Nigeria in what represents another historic opportunity for Chiquinho Conde’s side.
