Cameroon Rides Mbeumo’s Star Power to AFCON Success: How Did They Do It?

Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions have made a remarkable impact at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026, surprising many with their standout performances. Despite facing significant chaos off the pitch, the team has shown resilience and unity as they prepare to face Morocco’s Atlas Lions in the quarterfinals.

Chaos Behind the Scenes

The build-up to AFCON 2026 was fraught with difficulties for Cameroon. Issues within the football federation, led by FA President Samuel Eto’o, culminated in the dismissal of Belgian head coach Marc Brys just weeks before the tournament. Local coach David Pagou took charge, leading to a reshuffled squad missing key players such as André Onana and Vincent Aboubakar.

Historical Context

Cameroon has a history of tumultuous preparations for major tournaments. Previous instances include turmoil before the 2014 World Cup and the 2019 AFCON, where disputes over player bonuses and logistics hampered performance. These incidents have contributed to a perception of instability within the team.

AFCON 2026: A New Beginning

Upon arriving in Morocco, the Indomitable Lions shifted focus. Under Pagou’s leadership, a younger squad has displayed dynamic and cohesive football. Their opening match against Gabon concluded in a 1-0 victory, thanks to a timely goal from Karl Etta Eyong.

• Group Matches:
  • Cameroon 1 – 0 Gabon
  • Cameroon 1 – 1 Ivory Coast
  • Cameroon 2 – 1 Mozambique

In the Round of 16, Cameroon faced South Africa. Despite some close calls, the team emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, showcasing their determination and strategy.

Key Player: Bryan Mbeumo

Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo has been a standout player for Cameroon at this AFCON. His presence has invigorated the squad, especially given the absence of several established stars.

Defensive Resilience

While not known for possessing the ball, Cameroon has relied on an organized defensive strategy. They rank high in completed tackles and have shown aggression during matches, earning nine bookings across four games. This rugged approach has worked in their favor, allowing them to control key moments in matches.

Looking Ahead

As Cameroon prepares for their quarterfinal clash against Morocco, the team remains the underdog. Pagou emphasizes teamwork over individual stars, aligning his philosophy with the spirit of the Indomitable Lions.

“The star is the team,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of collective effort. With their intriguing journey at AFCON 2026, Cameroon aims to further defy expectations and continue their quest for glory.