In a compelling Ivory Coast vs Cameroon game at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), defending champions Ivory Coast were held to a dramatic 1–1 draw by five‑time winners Cameroon.
The result kept both teams firmly in control of their qualification hopes ahead of the final round of fixtures. The match, played at the Stade de Marrakech on December 28, 2025, featured a superb strike from Manchester United winger Amad Diallo, only for Cameroon to respond quickly through a deflected effort recorded as an own goal to level the game.
High Stakes from the Beginning
The Ivory Coast vs Cameroon clash was always set to be one of the standout fixtures of the AFCON group stage. Both teams started the tournament off well. Ivory Coast beat Mozambique and Cameroon beat Gabon in their first games.
The match in Marrakech was between two of the continent’s most successful footballing nations and had a big impact on the Group F standings.
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Fans were expecting a display of tactical discipline and attacking skill, and they got what they wanted. The first half of the game was very intense and competitive, with both teams trying to control the ball and show that they were the better team. However, no goals were scored because the defenses held strong.
Diallo Scores for the Elephants
The goal that changed the game between Ivory Coast and Cameroon came shortly after the break. Amad Diallo, who had scored Ivory Coast’s first goal in their earlier win over Mozambique, scored again in the 51st minute with a stunning long-range shot.
After a long build-up play, Diallo got the ball and curled a great left-footed shot into the corner of the goal. Cameroonian goalkeeper Devis Epassy had little chance, and the home crowd went wild.
Diallo’s goal was important for many reasons: it was his second goal of the tournament, it showed how important he was becoming to Ivory Coast’s attack, and it gave the defending champions the lead in a key group match.
Cameroon’s Quick Response
But Ivory Coast’s lead over Cameroon didn’t last long. Cameroon tied the game up again just five minutes after Diallo’s goal. Junior Tchamadeu’s shot from the right hit Ghislain Konan and bounced off him, going over Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana and into the net. This was officially recorded as an own goal.
Cameroon’s quick response showed how tough and experienced they are in big games. It kept the match in a delicate balance, so neither team could comfortably take control.
Key Moments in the Match
There were a number of key moments in the Ivory Coast vs Cameroon match that shaped the story:
VAR Intervention: Franck Kessie thought he had given Ivory Coast a two-goal lead early in the second half, but the goal was called off after a VAR review.
Woodwork and Near Misses: Cameroon striker Danny Namaso saw a shot hit the woodwork, showing that the Indomitable Lions were determined to win.
Late Chances: Cameroon almost got all three points deep into stoppage time with a quick counter-attack, but Ivory Coast defender Odilon Kossounou made a great block to stop them.
These important events showed how close the teams were to each other and made an already exciting game even more so.
Tactical Battles on Display
Ivory Coast vs Cameroon was a very interesting tactical battle between two very different styles. Ivory Coast, known for their structured build-up play and technical midfield combinations, wanted to control the ball and make space by being creative, especially through Diallo’s sharp runs and passing.
Cameroon, on the other hand, used discipline, quick changes, and physicality to throw off their opponents. Their ability to absorb pressure and transition quickly helped create scoring opportunities — including the own goal — and ensured that they remained competitive throughout.
Key Performances
Ivory Coast vs Cameroon had a number of great performances:
- Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast): The Manchester United winger was the main threat to his team’s attack. He scored a brilliant goal and was full of energy and creativity the whole match.
- Ghislain Konan (Ivory Coast): While unfortunate with the own goal, Konan was involved in creating the opening for Diallo’s goal and was active on both ends of the field.
- Yahia Fofana (Ivory Coast GK): Fofana made a number of important saves to keep his team level when he was called into action several times.
- Cameroon’s Defensive Unit: The Indomitable Lions’ defenders worked hard to limit Ivory Coast’s clear chances and were strong in key phases.
These contributions from the players on both sides added to the story of a close and well-matched Ivory Coast vs Cameroon fight.
What it means for Group F standings
The draw in Ivory Coast vs Cameroon had significant implications for Group F’s dynamics. After the game, both teams had four points, which put them at the top of the group standings. Mozambique, who beat Gabon earlier in the day, are now just one point behind with three points.
This close positioning sets up a thrilling final matchday for Group F, where every point will be crucial in determining who progresses to the Round of 16. Ivory Coast and Cameroon still have the edge because of their current point totals, but nothing is set in stone yet.
Historical Rivalry Adds Extra Spice
The rivalry between Ivory Coast and Cameroon adds another layer of significance to Ivory Coast vs Cameroon. These two countries have one of the most interesting histories in African international football, with a long list of classic matches going back decades.
Historically, Cameroon has won more games than Ivory Coast, but in recent matches, the Elephants have held their own, and they did so again in Marrakech.
These kinds of rivalries turn matches from just group games into contests of pride and continental standing, and this match lived up to that.
Looking Ahead for Both Sides
Ivory Coast and Cameroon are now looking forward to their last Group F games with confidence and focus after last night’s 1-1 draw. Ivory Coast will aim to consolidate their position and potentially secure top spot, while Cameroon — rejuvenated by their comeback — will seek to maintain momentum and finish strong as well.
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The competitive nature of Group F means the last matchday will be more exciting, and every team’s performance will be closely watched because they still have a chance to qualify for the knockout stage.
Conclusion
The Ivory Coast vs Cameroon game was a great example of why AFCON is still one of the most exciting football tournaments in the world. The 1–1 draw lived up to its billing as a heavyweight clash, with moments of individual brilliance, dramatic swings in momentum, and a result that keeps both teams in the running.
As the tournament gears towards the knockout stages, Ivory Coast and Cameroon continue to show that they are strong contenders. The fact that they both got a point from this match has only made people more excited for what is to come.
