Cameroon contre Gabon — Africa Cup of Nations

**Cameroon 1-0 Gabon**

**Playing Style:** Cameroon focused on direct attacks, evidenced by their higher number of shots inside the box (10 vs 6) and a higher shot on target percentage (23 vs 17). They also had more corners (9 vs 5) and were more effective in converting box entries into shots (54 vs 75), indicating a more clinical approach in front of goal. Gabon, on the other hand, dominated possession (57% vs 43%) and had a higher number of passes (424 vs 317), with better pass accuracy (83% vs 74%). Their play was more structured and focused on maintaining control in the opponent’s half, reflected in their higher presence in the opponent half (57 vs 37) and more passes in the opposition half (175 vs 102).

**Strengths and Weaknesses:** Cameroon’s strength was their efficiency in front of goal, particularly with shots inside the box and their ability to create big chances (1/3 converted). However, they struggled with defensive actions, having fewer defensive actions total (57 vs 81) and fewer interceptions (5 vs 10). Gabon’s strength was their overall control of the game, with superior possession, passing, and defensive metrics, including more duels won (78 vs 48), aerial duels won (25 vs 14), and successful tackles (29 vs 20). Their weakness was their inability to convert big chances, with 0/1 converted, despite having more shots outside the box (6 vs 3) and a higher box entry to shot rate (75 vs 54).

**Conclusion:** Cameroon’s single goal came from their more effective finishing in key moments, despite Gabon’s overall dominance in possession and passing. Cameroon had more shots on target (3 vs 2) and a higher shot on target percentage, which contributed to their goal. Gabon, while controlling the game and creating more chances in terms of quantity, struggled with conversion, particularly with their only big chance missed. Cameroon’s ability to capitalize on limited opportunities (1/3 converted) was the decisive factor in the 1-0 result. The match highlights Cameroon’s clinical finishing in critical moments and Gabon’s inability to convert their superior possession and passing into goals.