As the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) nears, we turn our focus to Group F, which is arguably one of the tournament’s most captivating two continental heavyweights against a determined neighbour and emerging challenger.
Featuring Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Gabon and Mozambique, this group guarantees intense battles for the two spots.
IVORY COAST: The defending champions seek to challenge
Ivory Coast arrive as the reigning AFCON Champion, having dramatically won the 2023 tournament on home soil. Now, under the manager, Emerse Fae, the ‘Elephants’ face the new challenge of defending their title away from Abidjan.
Despite a strong history, Ivory Coast’s record against Cameroon has been very tight over the years. They possess a deep, talented squad that is capable of dominating possession and breaking down stubborn defences.
Key player to watch: The skipper, Frank Kessie, will be the main man of the team. However, the side has more big names like Amad Diallo and Sebastien Haller.
What to expect: The team is technically gifted and has the confidence of a recent victory. They are joint favourites to win alongside Cameroon.
CAMEROON: The Indomitable Lions want to roar
As five-time African champions, Cameroon carries the weight of history and a fierce competitive spirit. They enter the tournament looking to reassert their dominance after a mixed run of results in recent years, including missing out a spot at the 2026 World Cup. Cameroon has a long and fierce rivalry with their main group competitor, Ivory Coast.
Historically, the fixture has been tightly contested with the head-to-head record slightly favouring the Ivorians. The campaign will be driven by a strong desire for redemption and success.
Key player to watch: Bryan Mbuemo, a dynamic winger whose pace and finishing ability make him a primary attacking threat.
What to expect: Cameroon’s strength lies in its mix of experienced European-based professionals and young talent. They are expected to be defensively solid and dangerous on the counter.
GABON: The Panthers seeking the knockout punch
Gabon enters Group F with the perennial hope of finally breaking a recurring cycle of near-miss tournament consistency. They are known to be a tricky opponent with star power but have struggled for tournament consistency.
Gabon has consistently fallen short of its potential in major tournaments. Facing two of the continent’s giants (Cameroon and Ivory Coast) makes their task daunting but not impossible. They will need to kick off their campaign strongly to build momentum.
Key player to watch: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the veteran captain and talisman whose pace and clinical finishing are crucial for Gabon’s attack.
What to expect: Gabon will likely rely on moments of individual brilliance from the forwards and a compact tactical approach.
MOZAMBIQUE: The Mamba’s bold ambition
Mozambique arrives in this tournament with growing confidence, making their sixth AFCON appearance and second consecutive qualification.
Under Chiquinho Conde, the Mambas have transformed into one of the most improved teams on the continent.
Key player to watch: Geny Catamo, one of Mozambique’s most promising talents brings speed, flair and match-changing potential.
What to expect: Mozambique is comfortable being underestimated. They must target points against Gabon to keep their surge alive.
The Forecast
Group F will be a race between two giants, Cameroon and Ivory Coast for the top two automatic qualification spots.