AFCON 2025 Match Preview: Ivory Coast vs Cameroon
Two of Africa’s most decorated footballing giants are set for a collision course in Marrakesh.
After successful starts to their 2025 AFCON campaigns, Ivory Coast and Cameroon meet in a pivotal clash where the winner is guaranteed safe passage into the round of 16.
Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast currently shares the lead in Group F with three points following a successful start to their title defense. A second-half goal from Manchester United’s Amad Diallo secured a narrow 1–0 victory over Mozambique in Marrakech on December 24.
Under manager Emerse Fae, “The Elephants” maintained the disciplined, possession-heavy style that won them the 2023 AFCON, with Franck Kessie and Ibrahim Sangare controlling the midfield and neutralizing Mozambique’s offense.
The triumph against Mozambique sustained a period of consistent performance for Ivory Coast, who have suffered only one defeat in their previous six competitive appearances.
Cameroon
Moving past recent off-field controversies, Cameroon secured an immediate advantage in their AFCON opener against Gabon. Bryan Mbeumo played a precise through-ball to Karl Etta Eyong, who converted the chance with a clinical first-time finish. The goal—Eyong’s first for the national team—stood following a VAR check and entered the record books as the second-fastest goal in Cameroon’s tournament history.
Under the guidance of head coach David Pagou, the Indomitable Lions showed impressive discipline and focus despite a chaotic lead-up to the competition. They maintained a well-organized defensive block while remaining calculated in attack, with Mbeumo once again serving as the primary creative spark.
This opening win offers a much-needed morale boost for a side that has struggled for consistency, having recorded three victories, two losses, and a draw in their previous six competitive fixtures.
Head-to-Head
Ivory Coast have historically maintained a narrow advantage over Cameroon, securing 10 victories compared to Cameroon’s nine, with two draws across 21 fixtures. The “Elephants” currently hold the momentum, remaining undefeated in their five most recent matchups with a record of three wins and two draws
Form Guide
Ivory Coast form: DWWLWW
Cameroon form: WLWDLW
Team News
Ivory Coast: Emerse Fae’s men came away from their AFCON opening match with a clean bill of health and no suspensions. A notable change in the lineup saw Jean-Michael Seri return to the midfield starting position, replacing Seko Fofana after recovering from a long-term injury.
In the attack, Wilfried Zaha struggled to score while playing as a central striker and was substituted for Vakoun Bayo late in the game. Meanwhile, despite intense competition for spots in the forward line, Diallo is likely to keep his starting role after netting the decisive goal.
Cameroon: Following their successful start against Gabon, Cameroon reportedly have a clean bill of health. Manager David Pagou is expected to maintain continuity, fielding a similar lineup to the one that secured the win in Agadir.
Bryan Mbeumo, Carlos Baleba, and goalscorer Karl Etta Eyong are all set to retain their positions, with the rest of Wednesday’s starting XI likely to remain unchanged as well.
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Key Players
Amad Diallo propelled the defending champions, Ivory Coast, to a crucial opening win with a composed finish against Mozambique.
Meanwhile, Mbeumo has embraced his new role as Cameroon’s captain, leading the Indomitable Lions by providing the winning assist against Gabon. These two attackers have become the essential playmakers and focal points for their national sides.
Predicted Lineup
Ivory Coast Starting XI:Fofana; Doue, Ndicka, Kossounou, Konan; Seri, Kessie, Sangare; Y. Diomande, Diallo, Zaha
Cameroon Starting XI: Epassy; Malone, Koto, Tolo, Tchamadeu, Yongwa; Baleba, Ebong, Namaso; Mbeumo, Eyong
Verdict: Ivory Coast’s veteran presence and offensive talent are likely to overwhelm a younger Cameroon squad, as long as they capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Although Cameroon might catch their opponents off guard with a fresh tactical approach under new leadership, the Elephants’ deeper roster and higher caliber of play should ultimately carry them through to the next round. Ivory Coast 3-1 Cameroon
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