Cameroon solidified their dominance in Group J of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe at the Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé on Tuesday.

The result ensured the Indomitable Lions finished unbeaten at the top of the group with 14 points, while Zimbabwe, despite the loss, maintained second place with nine points and also booked their spot in the tournament.

First-Half Brilliance from Cameroon

Cameroon got off to a flying start with two goals in the first 23 minutes, putting Zimbabwe under immense pressure.

Captain Vincent Aboubakar opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a powerful strike into the top corner after a well-timed assist from Georges-Kévin N'Koudou.

N'Koudou then doubled the lead five minutes later, slotting the ball into the bottom corner following a swift counterattack led by Christian Bassogog.

Cameroon’s attacking intent and fluidity in the first half left Zimbabwe struggling to keep pace.

Despite the loss, Zimbabwe’s earlier performances ensured they clinched the second qualification spot, marking a return to Africa’s premier tournament.

Zimbabwe’s Fightback Falls Short

Terrence Dzvukamanja pulled one back for Zimbabwe in the 73rd minute with a stunning left-footed effort from outside the box.

However, the Warriors failed to find an equaliser despite some late chances, including a shot that rattled the post in the 81st minute.

Cameroon’s defence held firm in the closing stages, with goalkeeper André Onana making crucial saves to deny Zimbabwe’s late surge.

Kenya and Namibia Share the Spoils

John Avire of Kenya challenged by Ivan Kamberipa of Namibia during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers match between Kenya and Namibia

In the other Group J match, Kenya and Namibia played out a goalless draw at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

 The result confirmed Kenya’s third-place finish with six points, while Namibia ended at the bottom with two points.

Namibia failed to secure a single win, finishing at the bottom with two points and scoring just two goals in six matches.

Group J Final Standings:

1. Cameroon – 14 points (6 matches played)
2. Zimbabwe – 9 points (6 matches played)
3. Kenya – 6 points (6 matches played)
4. Namibia – 2 points (6 matches played)