Between Cameroon and Ivory Coast, the rivalry shows no mercy in this AFCON 2023. The “Indomitable Lions” did not miss the opportunity to tease their rival after securing their qualification. Rigobert Song’s team, however, had a tough time against Gambia.
The match was marked by dramatic twists. Rigobert Song made a bold decision by benching André Onana, following his disappointing performance in the last game. However, the Indomitable Lions disappointed in the first half, allowing Gambia to dictate the pace. Barrow and Jallow caused significant problems for the Cameroonian defense, coming close to opening the scoring. Thanks to a decisive intervention by Ondoa, Cameroon reached halftime with a 0-0 score.
Cameroon Trembles Until the End
The turning point came in the second half, with a remarkable transformation of the Cameroonian team producing much more captivating football. Nkoudou quickly hit the crossbar (49th minute), signaling an intense period. Toko-Ekambi finally delivered his team by heading in a powerful goal, giving them the lead. However, despite this advantage, Cameroon showed signs of vulnerability, highlighting persistent issues.
Gambia reacted swiftly, launching numerous attacks, determined to secure the victory that would ensure their qualification. Their efforts paid off when Ablie Jallow equalized (72nd minute), increasing the pressure on Cameroon. The end of the match was chaotic, with Toko Ekambi narrowly missing a counter-attack opportunity (75th minute). Gambia took the lead by scoring in the 87th minute, plunging Cameroon into disappointment. However, the following action was even more incredible, with Gambian defender Gomez scoring an own goal (2-2, 88th minute).
The improbable scenario continued with Wooh’s winning goal in injury time (3-2, 90th minute), ultimately qualifying Cameroon for the Round of 16. The handball attempt by Sanneh (90th+6) did not alter the outcome.
Cameroon Celebrates…
By narrowly winning this match against Gambia (2-3), Cameroon secured the second spot in Group C on Tuesday, allowing them to advance to the Round of 16 in AFCON 2023. A draw would have eliminated the Indomitable Lions and qualified Ivory Coast, and Cameroon did not miss the chance to taunt the Elephants, who are still “in the waiting room.”
After their victory in Bouaké, the Cameroonian troops, led by Olivier Kemen, celebrated their success by singing the well-known refrain: “Where are they? Where are they? Look for them, look for them!” A video widely shared on the social network X. This provocation clearly refers to the Ivorian players. While this teasing can be explained by the historical rivalry between the two countries, other elements come into play.
Indeed, incidents on Tuesday contributed to intensifying the rivalry between the two nations. The numerous Ivorian supporters at the Stade de la Paix openly supported Gambia, hoping for a draw that would have qualified their team. The intense teasing by Olivier Kemen and his teammates towards the Ivorian players in the locker room can be explained by the events during the celebration of their goals. Instead of being welcomed by cheers from local supporters, they faced bottle-throwing incidents from Ivory Coast fans. Undoubtedly, a regrettable scene.
Nevertheless, for Rigobert Song’s team, the journey continues, and with great determination, the Indomitable Lions approach their Round of 16 clash against Nigeria’s Super Eagles this Saturday.
Leave a Reply