Defending champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon shared a thrilling 1–1 draw on Sunday night in Marrakech, a result that leaves both African heavyweights level at the top of Group F at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Once again, Manchester United winger Amad Diallo proved decisive for the Elephants, scoring his second goal of the tournament to break the deadlock and further underline his growing influence in Ivory Coast’s title defence.
Just four days after netting the match-winner against Mozambique, Diallo was at the heart of everything for the Ivorians. His pace and direct running caused constant problems for the Indomitable Lions’ defence during an energetic first half.
The breakthrough finally arrived six minutes after the restart. A long, searching pass from Ghislain Konan released Diallo down the right flank, and the winger showed composure beyond his years, calmly slotting a left-footed finish past Devis Epassy to spark wild celebrations among the Ivorian supporters.
However, Ivory Coast’s lead was short-lived. Cameroon responded almost immediately, equalising five minutes later when Junior Tchamadeu’s long-range effort took a cruel deflection off Konan and looped beyond the helpless Yahia Fofana.
It was a fair reflection of an end-to-end contest. Diallo had earlier fired wide from a promising position, while Cameroon came agonisingly close through Christian Kofane, whose powerful strike crashed off the crossbar following another dangerous Tchamadeu delivery.
Ivory Coast continued to threaten, with Vakoun Bayo heading over when well placed, and Diallo going close again just before the break, only to be denied by a perfectly timed challenge from captain Nouhou Tolo.
The second half maintained the same intensity. Franck Kessié briefly thought he had restored Ivory Coast’s lead, but his effort was ruled out for offside, while at the other end Danny Namaso struck the woodwork as Cameroon pushed forward.
Diallo’s goal and Cameroon’s swift response encapsulated the spirit of a rivalry that has rarely disappointed on the continental stage. The draw leaves both sides locked on four points at the summit of Group F, with qualification firmly in their own hands.
Earlier on Sunday, Mozambique shook up the group with a dramatic 3–2 victory over Gabon, securing their first-ever win at an Africa Cup of Nations. The result lifted Mozambique to three points and left Gabon bottom of the group without a point.
With everything still to play for, Group F will be decided on Wednesday night. Ivory Coast face Gabon, while Cameroon take on Mozambique, with both matches kicking off at 22:00 EAT.
