Ivory Coast and Cameroon go head-to-head in a high-stakes AFCON group clash, with both sides arriving on the back of matchday one victories and knowing that another win would almost certainly secure a place in the knockout rounds. For the defending champions, Ivory Coast, this fixture represents an early opportunity to assert their credentials and continue their bid to retain the title, something no team has achieved since Egypt in 2010, Softfootball reports.
The Elephants were made to work hard for their opening 1-0 win over Mozambique, but the result extended an encouraging run of form that has seen them win six of their last eight matches. Victory here would mark three consecutive wins for the first time in 2025 and put them firmly in control of the group.
However, there is a slight note of caution, as Ivory Coast have failed to win their second group game in each of their last five AFCON appearances, a trend they will be keen to put behind them.
Cameroon also opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory, overcoming Gabon despite notable off-field distractions in the build-up to the tournament. That result has put the five-time AFCON winners in a strong position to reach the knockout stages for a fifth consecutive edition.
While their recent record is mixed, Cameroon’s two defeats in their last five matches are the only losses they’ve suffered since June 2024, highlighting a side that is still difficult to beat.
That said, the Indomitable Lions arrive at this tournament under added pressure following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With questions lingering around stability off the pitch, this match presents an important chance to send a statement on it. A positive result against the defending champions would go a long way toward restoring confidence and tipping the balance of their recent form in a more favourable direction.
Team News
Ivory Coast will take confidence from Amad Diallo’s decisive contribution on matchday one which earned him the player of the game award, as he continues a trend of delivering his goals after the interval. The winger remains an important attacking outlet as the Elephants look to break down a disciplined Cameroonian defence.
Ahead of the game, Cameroun via it’s official X handle, shared exclusive footage from its training sessions as the players intensify efforts as they are set to take on the defending champions, Ivory Coast. They posted:
For Cameroon, Karl Etta Eyong announced himself on the international stage by scoring his first senior goal against Gabon. His knack for early goals could be significant in a fixture that promises to be tight and tactical. Both teams appear to have come through their opening matches without injury concerns, giving the coaches a full complement of options.
Possible Lineups
Ivory Coast possible starting lineup:
Fofana; Doue, Ndicka, Kossounou, Konan; Seri, Kessie, Sangare; Y. Diomande, Diallo, Zaha
Cameroon possible starting lineup:
Epassy; Malone, Koto, Tolo, Tchamadeu, Yongwa; Baleba, Ebong, Namaso; Mbeumo, Eyong
SoftFootball Prediction
With both sides favouring defensive solidity and recent matches producing few goals, this encounter is likely to be cagey and closely fought. Ivory Coast’s recent consistency and status as defending champions may give them a slight edge, but Cameroon’s experience at this level should not be underestimated.
Prediction: Ivory Coast 1-0 Cameroon
