The biggest blockbuster of the AFCON 2025 group stage takes place tonight, Sunday, December 28, 2025, as the defending champions Ivory Coast face five-time winners Cameroon. Kick-off is set for 20:00 GMT at the Marrakech Stadium in Morocco.
This Matchday 2 encounter in Group F is more than just a rivalry; it’s a direct battle for the top spot. Both teams secured 1-0 wins in their opening fixtures, meaning a victory for either side tonight will guarantee a place in the Round of 16.
Match Details
Competition: 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Group F)
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT / 21:00 Local / 23:00 EAT
Venue: Marrakech Stadium, Morocco
Broadcast: beIN SPORTS (US/Africa) / Channel 4seven (UK)
Current Form: Perfection vs. Pragmatism
Ivory Coast: The Holders’ Steady Start
The "Elephants" opened their title defense on Christmas Eve with a controlled 1-0 victory over Mozambique. Manchester United star Amad Diallo was the hero, volleying home a cross from captain Franck Kessié. Under Emerse Faé, Ivory Coast looks defensively resolute, having conceded only one goal in their last six competitive outings.
Cameroon: The "Lions" Roar Early
Cameroon also started with a maximum harvest, edging past Gabon 1-0 thanks to an early strike from Karl Etta Eyong. Now under newly appointed manager David Pagou, the Indomitable Lions showed immense discipline, successfully neutralizing a dangerous Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. However, they will need more attacking fluidity to break down a seasoned Ivorian backline.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Ivory Coast Team News
Emerse Faé has a fully fit squad to choose from. The main talking point is whether Wilfried Zaha will return to the starting lineup to provide more experience in a high-pressure derby.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Fofana; Aurier, Ndicka, Kossounou, Konan; Seri, Kessié, Sangaré; Diomandé, Amad, Zaha.
Cameroon Team News
The Lions are also injury-free but may shift to a more conservative 3-5-2 to handle the Ivorian wings.
Predicted XI (3-5-2): Epassy; Moukoudi, Kotto, Tolo; Tchamadeu, Baleba, Ebong, Namaso, Yongwa; Mbeumo, Etta Eyong.
Tactical Analysis: The "Manchester United" Rivalry
A fascinating subplot is the battle between Manchester United teammates Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) and Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon).
Ivory Coast’s Overload: The Elephants rely on Franck Kessié making late runs into the box while Amad draws defenders out of position. Their ball retention is among the best in the tournament.
Cameroon’s Athleticism: The Lions thrive on physical duels. Carlos Baleba’s energy in midfield will be vital in disrupting the rhythm of Kessié and Sangaré. If they can isolate Mbeumo against Evan Ndicka, they could find joy on the break.
Head-to-Head: A Century-Old Rivalry
This is one of African football's most balanced and storied fixtures.
Total Meetings: 21
Results: Ivory Coast (10 wins), Cameroon (9 wins), 2 Draws.
Recent Trend: Ivory Coast is unbeaten in their last five meetings with Cameroon, including a famous 1-0 win in the 2015 AFCON group stages.
Match Prediction
Expect a tactical chess match. Both managers know that a draw is a respectable result that keeps them on track for qualification. However, Ivory Coast’s depth and recent tournament "know-how" give them the slight advantage in what will likely be a low-scoring, high-intensity affair.
Final Score Prediction: Ivory Coast 1–0 Cameroon
