Cameroon wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign in style, securing a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe in their final Group J encounter at the Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé on Tuesday afternoon.
The Indomitable Lions capped off a dominant campaign by finishing unbeaten at the top of Group J with four wins and two draws. Zimbabwe, having already secured their place in the tournament, ended in second place with two wins, three draws, and one defeat—the loss to Cameroon on the final day of qualifiers.
Cameroon came out strong from the onset, pressuring the Warriors’ defence. Their persistence paid off in the 18th minute when Vincent Aboubakar found the back of the net after a brilliant run into Zimbabwe’s box. His 42nd international goal gave the hosts an early 1-0 lead.
Five minutes later, the Indomitable Lions doubled their advantage. Christian Bassogog delivered a pinpoint long pass to Georges-Kevin N’Koudou, who skillfully cut inside from the left flank and fired a shot past Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper, Washington Arubi, to make it 2-0 by halftime.
Zimbabwe, determined to fight back, sought to break through Cameroon’s solid defensive line after the break. Head coach Michael Nees introduced attacking reinforcements in the 59th minute, bringing on Terrence Dzvukamanja and Prince Dube.
The changes injected life into Zimbabwe’s attack, and Dzvukamanja made an immediate impact. The SuperSport United forward managed to slot the ball past Cameroon’s goalkeeper, Andre Onana, in the 73rd minute, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Despite Zimbabwe’s late push, Cameroon held firm to secure the win and conclude their qualifiers on a high note.
With both teams heading to the 2025 AFCON finals, the victory sends a strong message about Cameroon’s aspirations in the tournament, while Zimbabwe will look to build on their solid qualifying performance.
