The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon came from behind to record a 2-1 victory in their opening game of the TotalEnergies AFCON against the Stallions of Burkina Faso on Sunday, January 9. Vincent Aboubakar scored twice from the spot, reigniting memories of his role in Cameroon’s clinching of their fifth AFCON title in 2017.
Just as he scored a winning goal that saw the Lions edge Egypt 2-1 in the final, five years ago in Gabon, he ended 40 minutes of uncertainty for Cameroon at the Olembe stadium, instilling an atmosphere of hope for the rest of the match.
Gustavo Sangare had put Burkina Faso ahead in the 24th minute, dampening the spirits of home supporters. However, Aboubakar levelled scores 16 minutes later before adding the winner in the 45th + 3 minute.
It is true that the competition is still at the start, but captain Aboubakar’s performance, together with the energy that was brought in by Clinton Njie, Bassogog, and Choupo Moting in the second half against the Stallions, has raised the hopes of Cameroonians as this year’s top continental football event in Africa starts out.
Cameroon will play their next match against Ethiopia on Thursday, January 13. The Indomitable Lions top Group A with 3 points. Cape Verde equally have 3 points after defeating the Walias of Ethiopia one-nil.