Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo has played down suggestions that the Indomitable Lions are under pressure at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting the focus remains on winning rather than expectations.
Cameroon arrive at the tournament eager to restore pride after missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but are still regarded as one of the contenders to advance from Group F, which also features Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon and Mozambique.
Despite the nation’s storied AFCON pedigree, Mbeumo says he feels no added burden.
“For me, there is no pressure,” he told CAFOnline. “Wherever I have played, I have always wanted to win. Cameroon has a great history at the AFCON with many successes, and we will try to represent the country well.”
The Manchester United attacker also spoke about the responsibility entrusted to him by head coach David Pagou, noting that he is expected to influence games both on and off the pitch.
“Like everyone else, he expects me to make a difference through my voice, my dribbling, and everything I can bring to help the team achieve results. That’s what we are working towards,” he concluded.
Cameroon begin their AFCON campaign tonight against Gabon at the Adrar Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
