AFCON 2025: Ivory Coast vs Cameroon preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

Both teams started the AFCON on a great note, with a win in their first match. This fixture will be about making a statement in this tournament, as the victorious team can qualify for the next round with the last group match to spare.

Ivory Coast kicked off their AFCON title defense with a narrow 1-0 win over Mozambique. The winning goal came from Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, helping the Elephants start strong.

While they had most of the ball and created many chances, coach Emerse Faé might still be worried about their wastefulness in front of goal. They could not finish the game off early and will need to be more clinical against a tougher Cameroon side.

Cameroon also began with a 1-0 victory, beating Gabon thanks to an early goal by Etta Eyong. The Indomitable Lions showed strong character to hold on to their lead, although big names like Bryan Mbeumo did not shine much.

This matchup is one of Africa’s most well-matched rivalries. With both teams tied on points and goal difference, the winner in Marrakesh will likely book a place in the next round before the final group game.​

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Both teams are no strangers to one another as they have faced each other very often, both in friendlies and competitive matches. Fixtures involving Ivory Coast and Cameroon have been keenly contested, with each team winning 9 times and 2 ending in a draw in all meetings.

Ivory Coast were dealt a big setback before the tournament began when key striker Sébastien Haller was ruled out with a hamstring injury. In his place, Wilfried Zaha started up front against Mozambique but had little impact and was later replaced by Vakoun Bayo.

After his standout display and winning goal, Amad Diallo is expected to keep his place on the wing.

Cameroon, on the other hand, are missing first-choice goalkeeper André Onana, who was not included in the squad due to issues within the football federation. Devis Epassy took his place against Gabon and is set to remain in goal.

The team has no new injury problems, so Carlos Baleba and match-winner Etta Eyong are likely to be in the starting lineup again.

​Ivory Coast (4-3-3): Fofana; Doue, Ndicka, Kossounou, Konan; Seri, Kessie, Sangare; Y. Diomande, Diallo, Zaha

Cameroon (5-3-2): Epassy; Malone, Koto, Tolo, Tchamadeu, Yongwa; Baleba, Ebong, Namaso; Mbeumo, Eyong

​This is shaping up to be a real chess match between two of Africa’s football powerhouses. While the Elephants boast of a better squad quality and in-form players, the Indomitable Lions are a stubborn side with a rock-solid defense.

Bettors can stake on Livescorebet for an opportunity to enjoy great odds and mouth-watering bonus offers. The defending champions may likely get the edge in this fixture.

Prediction: Ivory Coast 2-1 Cameroon

• Bet on Ivory Coast to win

• Over 1.5 goals

• Both teams to score - Yes