Cameroon kick off their quest for a sixth Africa Cup of Nations title when they tackle Gabon on December 24, at the Stade Adrar in Agadir.
To say that the Indomitable Lions have taken a few steps back in recent years would be an understatement, especially after they failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Gabon is one of the dark horses of the tournament, who thrive on giant-killing at tournaments like these, but their best-ever finish at AFCON was the quarter-finals, something they will want to improve on here.
Explore our Cameroon vs Gabon betting tips below.
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Cameroon vs Gabon predictions: Stalemate on the cards
Key stats
- Cameroon came through qualifying without defeat, demonstrating how difficult it is to beat them.
- Gabon have been great at AFCON openers, losing only once, but winning four, including once against Cameroon.
- The Panthers are unbeaten in their last six outings within 90 minutes, with defeat to Nigeria after extra time being their most recent result.
Correct score prediction: Cameroon 0-0 Gabon
The lack of goals in African football is not a surprise. Cameroon’s chaotic build-up to this tournament is bound to unsettle them, especially with the veteran captain Vincent Aboubakar being left out of the squad. Three clean sheets for Gabon across their last four games suggest that they could register another shutout here.
Pre-game odds and win probability: Troubled Cameroon still backed
- HOME: 11/10 (2.10) – 47.6%
- DRAW: 2/1 (3.00) – 33.3%
- AWAY: 23/10 (3.30) – 30.3%
*odds from Ladbrokes, subject to change
Despite the issues surrounding Cameroon’s coaching staff and the fact that Marc Brys claimed his sacking was not official, they are still favourites to come out on top here, according to bookmakers. The Indomitable Lions have a 47.6% chance of winning the game, while Ladbrokes have given a draw a higher chance of happening at 33.3% than a victory for Gabon at 30.3%.
We have more free betting tips for today to help you out with the best possible selections.
Most recent H2Hs: History that goes both ways
Their most recent meeting at the 2017 AFCON ended in a goalless draw, but the previous four head-to-heads were split evenly into two victories apiece. Overall, Gabon won just one of the last 25 meetings, but these go way back in time.
Africa Cup of Nations 22/01/17
Cameroon
Gabon
International Match 06/09/16
Cameroon
Gabon
Cameroon preview: No Aboubakar for Pagou
The new head coach has intentionally left out captain Vincent Aboubakar as well as goalkeeper Andre Onana, saying that they are taking a different direction. That leaves the door open for Devis Epassy, who is also one of three captains of the side. Karl Etta Eyong from Levante is also expected to have an exciting tournament.
Predicted lineup: Epassy; Tchamadeu, Wooh, Boyomo, Tolo; Onana, Baleba; Mbeumo, Dina Ebimbe, Nkoudou; Magri
Last five matches
- DR Congo 1-0 Cameroon
- Cameroon 0-0 Angola
- Mauritius 0-2 Cameroon
- Cape Verde 1-0 Cameroon
- Cameroon 3-0 Eswatini
Gabon preview: Aubameyang ruled out
Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will not be available for Gabon’s opening fixture after suffering an injury in his final game for Marseille against Monaco. Defender Michel Mboula is also a major doubt for the tournament. However, the Panthers will have Denis Bouanga available, hoping he can transpose his club form over to the African showpiece.
Predicted lineup: Mbaba; Oyono, Ecuele Manga, Appindangoye, Ekomie; Ndong, Lemina; Boaunga, Kanga, Allevinah; Openda
Last five matches
- Nigeria 1-1 Gabon (Nigeria 4-1 Gabon aet)
- Gabon 2-0 Burundi
- Gambia 3-4 Gabon
- Gabon 0-0 Cote d’Ivoire
- Seychelles 0-4 Gabon
Player to watch – Bryan Mbeumo
The new Cameroon captain will take on leading his nation at the tournament, as well as the burden of finding the back of the net. The Man United forward has had goal involvements in each of Cameroon’s last three competitive victories, with two goals and two assists. The Indomitable Lions will look to him for inspiration, especially in the final third.