Aboubakar Strikes Late as Cameroon Edge Past Mauritania
Cameroon needed a last-minute goal to overcome a stubborn Mauritania side 1-0 in Yaoundé on Sunday, as the Indomitable Lions kicked off their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a hard-fought win.
The hosts struggled to break down the resolute defence of the Mourabitounes for much of the match at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Omnisports Stadium. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Volker Finke’s men were frustrated throughout the first 90 minutes of play.
It took a moment of quality in stoppage time to secure all three points. FC Porto striker Vincent Aboubakar pounced late to slot home the winner in the 90th minute, sparking relief and celebration among the home fans.
The narrow win puts Cameroon top of Group M with three points, ahead of South Africa and Gambia, who played out a 0-0 draw earlier in the day.
Finke will be concerned by his side’s lack of cutting edge, but relieved to have avoided an early slip in the qualifiers. The late goal underlines Cameroon’s fighting spirit and keeps them firmly on course in the race for a place at Gabon 2017.
Mauritania, meanwhile, will take heart from their disciplined performance, having come within seconds of taking an unexpected point on Cameroonian soil.
