Cameroon held by Congo as Mali, Benin and Gabon claim wins in 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Cameroon were held to a 1-1 draw by Congo in Brazzaville as Mali, Benin and Gabon secured victories in the second round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

Claude Le Roy had promised a “big result” against Cameroon and, despite the late decision by CAF to order the match to be played behind closed doors, Congo came close to delivering it.

The Red Devils produced an unexpectedly assured and attractive performance, causing problems for the Indomitable Lions before Cameroon salvaged a point.

Blondy Nna Noukeu, making his debut as the visitors’ new goalkeeper, was called into action inside the opening minute when he stopped a powerful effort from Congo captain Merveil Ndockyt.

The hosts continued to threaten and took the lead in the 24th minute. Geltany Bantsiele reacted quickest at the far post to convert and put Congo ahead.

Cameroon, coached by David Pagou, struggled to contain the pace of the home attack and were fortunate not to fall 2-0 behind before the interval, with Congo going close on two occasions.

Cameroon manager David Pagou responded by introducing Bil Nsongo and Mahamadou Nagida at half-time. The changes had an immediate impact, with Rennes full-back Nagida breaking down the left before firing a powerful shot which Melvin Zinga diverted into his own goal with his forearm in the 53rd minute.

It was an unfortunate first international appearance for the Angers substitute goalkeeper.

The match became increasingly open in the closing stages and either side could have taken the points. Congo created the clearer late chances, however, forcing Noukeu into two important saves.

Congo have taken only one point from their opening two matches, while Cameroon have four.

Mali maintain winning start

In Group K, Mali followed their 3-1 victory over Cape Verde by beating Liberia 1-0 in Monrovia.

The Eagles appeared to lack some of their usual energy but still controlled much of the game under Anthony Da Silva. Liberia threatened several times, particularly from set-pieces, without finding a way through.

The decisive moment came in the 79th minute when Reims forward Ange Martial Tia finished after a precise pass from Kamory Doumbia and a defensive error. It was Tia’s second goal in two international appearances.

The result moved Mali level with Rwanda at the top of the group after Rwanda produced a surprise win over Cape Verde earlier in the day.

Gabon and Benin climb their groups

Gabon responded to their 2-0 defeat by Morocco by beating Niger 2-0 in Franceville. Rody Junior Effaghe opened the scoring in the 53rd minute before Denis Bouanga added a second in the 77th, lifting Gabon above Niger into second place in Group A.

In Group F, Benin built on their 1-1 draw in Burkina Faso by defeating Mauritania 2-1 in Abidjan.

Rodolfo Aloko scored twice, in the 31st and 46th minutes, to put Gernot Rohr’s side in control. Aboubakary Koita pulled one back for Mauritania in the 80th minute, but Benin held on to move above their opponents and join Burkina Faso at the top. Burkina Faso had beaten Central African Republic 1-0 the previous day.