The Africa Cup of Nations continued to deliver high drama and strong talking points on and off the pitch, as several heavyweights opened their campaigns while debate around the tournament’s timing once again took centre stage.
Nigeria forward Samuel Chukwueze was vocal in his defence of the tournament, insisting the AFCON deserves the same respect as the World Cup or European Championship. Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s campaign, the Fulham winger said criticism of the competition’s scheduling was misplaced.
“Everyone wants to play in AFCON. It’s one of the best competitions in the world,” Chukwueze said. “You have to respect it the same way you respect the World Cup or Euros.”
The winger, who will miss club games due to international duty, admitted the timing was difficult but insisted representing one’s country must take priority.
On the pitch, hosts Cameroon began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Gabon in Group F. Karl Etta Eyong’s early strike in the sixth minute proved decisive, with the goal standing after a VAR check. Cameroon, five-time champions, showed greater urgency despite recent turmoil, including the dismissal of coach Marc Brys and the absence of goalkeeper Andre Onana. Bryan Mbeumo was influential throughout, creating several opportunities as the Indomitable Lions took early control of the group alongside Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast, the defending champions, also opened with a win, edging Mozambique 1-0 in a game they largely dominated. Amad Diallo scored the decisive goal early in the second half, while Wilfried Zaha and Franck Kessié both missed chances to extend the margin. Despite the narrow scoreline, the Ivorians looked comfortable and controlled proceedings for long spells.
Elsewhere, Algeria made an emphatic start to their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Sudan. Captain Riyad Mahrez struck twice, continuing his strong form for club and country. The winger, now Algeria’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament, dismissed suggestions that his performance was a response to criticism. “I focus on my football. We came here with a clear plan and executed it,” Mahrez said. Algeria, who missed out on the last two World Cups, looked assured as they aim to re-establish themselves among Africa’s elite.
The day’s most dramatic encounter came in Group E, where Burkina Faso produced a remarkable late comeback to beat Equatorial Guinea 2-1. Despite playing against 10 men, after Basilio Ndiong was sent off early in the second half, Burkina Faso struggled to break through and even fell behind late on when Marvin Anieboh scored for Equatorial Guinea. However, goals in stoppage time from Georgi Minoungou and Edmond Tapsoba turned the match on its head and secured all three points for Burkina Faso.
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