The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group F openers saw a series of compelling matches. Holders Ivory Coast secured a 1-0 victory over Mozambique, thanks to a composed strike from Manchester United forward Amad Diallo in Marrakech. Elsewhere, Riyad Mahrez's double propelled Algeria to a dominant win against 10-man Sudan in Rabat.

In Agadir, five-time champions Cameroon also started their campaign with a win, defeating Gabon by a single goal. Karl Etta Eyong's early strike was the decisive moment in an intense encounter between the Central African neighbours. Cameroon initiated the game with a bristling pace, aiming to catch Gabon off guard through rapid transitions and swift advancements.

This strategy proved effective when Bryan Mbeumo collected Samuel Kotto's ball over the top, then threaded a deft pass into the path of Eyong, who was making a run inside the box. The Levante forward capitalized on the opportunity, sliding a first-time finish through goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba's legs. The goal's validity was confirmed after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check confirmed it was onside.

Sensing the urgent need for a shift in momentum, Gabon's coach Thierry Mouyouma made a surprising double substitution in the 33rd minute, bringing on Mario Lemina and the nation's leading marksman, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, to replace Teddy Averlant and Eric Bocoum. Aubameyang's appearance was particularly notable, as he had been widely expected to miss the game due to injury.

Gabon's best opportunity to equalize came 18 minutes from time when Royce Openda received Andre Poko's raking pass. From a tight angle inside the box, Openda unleashed a shot that drew an excellent save from the advanced Devis Epassy. Shortly after, substitute Frank Magri nearly extended Cameroon's lead, heading a corner from Bryan Mbeumo against the crossbar, with a deflection off defender Jacques Ekomie.

Both teams are now preparing for the second of their three group stage matches, scheduled for Sunday. Gabon will face Mozambique in Agadir, while Cameroon will go head-to-head with the Elephants of Ivory Coast in Marrakech at 20:00.