This Wednesday evening, the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations concluded with the final two matches. In this 8 PM multi-game broadcast, there was a lot at stake as three teams battled for first place. Naturally, this position was crucial for qualifying for the knockout stage and securing a favorable spot in the group. Logically, it was expected to be a contest between Cameroon and Ivory Coast. However, Mozambique, who surprised everyone in the first round of matches, should not be overlooked.
On paper, the Ivory Coast Elephants were expected to cruise to victory against a Gabonese team already eliminated and without Aubameyang, who had returned to Marseille. However, in this match, Gabon caused Ivory Coast problems, scoring two quick goals. Guelor Kanga and Denis Bouanga gave the Panthers the lead. As a result, Ivory Coast dropped to second place in the standings, joining Morocco, Algeria, DR Congo, and Nigeria in the same half of the bracket as Morocco.
Ivory Coast stages a comeback
Trailing in the score, Emerse Faé's team naturally turned their attention to Cameroon and their match against Mozambique. In another twist of fate, after 23 minutes of play, Mozambique took the lead thanks to a goal from Geny Catamo. As a result, Mozambique moved to the top of the group, relegating Cameroon and Ivory Coast to the other half of the table. But this didn't last, as Cameroon scored two goals to retake the lead and secure first place.
Nene scored an own goal before Kofane gave his team the lead after the break. With this victory, the Indomitable Lions took first place in the group, but they had to be wary of Ivory Coast, who fought back late in the game thanks to goals from Krasso and Guessand. And in an incredible turn of events, Bazoumana Toure secured the win for his team in the final seconds. Ivory Coast snatched first place at the last minute and will face Burkina Faso, while Cameroon will play South Africa.