In a game of huge concern to Nigeria, Cameroon secured an important comeback victory over Mozambique.
Both teams went into the game requiring a triumph, to define which position they will finish in Group F.
It was a very competitive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) encounter, but one which became ultimately settled by moments of magic.
The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon had a big chance in the fourth minute, but failed to capitalize after a cross-cum-shot from Danny Namaso. Mozambican goalkeeper Ivan Urrubal saved the effort comfortably.
Nine minutes into proceedings, Mozambique broke forward, with Geny Catamo sending in a delightful ball across the six-yard area.
Gildo Vilanculos was present at the far post down the left-hand side of the box, but his effort was pretty much weak, leaving goalkeeper Dévis Epassy to make an easy save.
Manchester United winger Bryan Mbeumo also played a sizzling through ball to Christian Kofane at exactly the quarter of the hour mark, but he couldn't utilize the chance from close range, with goalie Ivan earning his pay with a fabulous stop.
Given the complexity of the affair, it became difficult to tell where and potentially when the first goal would come.
However, the Mambas of Mozambique altered the scoreline with an incredible strike from outside the eighteen-yard area.
Geny Catamo took control of the ball and glided across the pitch like a ballet dancer before rifling a shot towards the bottom right corner. Goalkeeper Epassy scrambled to his left, but his effort proved futile.
Just five minutes later, Nene came up with a comical own goal for Cameroon’s leveler, turning the ball into his own net, with his back on the ground. His contact on the ball reminded many of low volleys seen every now and again in football.
Kofane (19) had a game for the ages due to his desire for success, but the first forty-five (45) looked like a half that could have mentally shaken even the strongest and most experienced players.
Christian Kofane put David Pagou’s side briefly ahead seven minutes before the expiration of the first period, putting the ball into a gaping post, but his goal got chalked off for offside.
Despite the encounter getting to a state of uncertainty, Cameroon kept their cool and seized the lead in the second half through, guess who? Christian Kofane.
The youngster gave the game the divergence it deserved, as he smashed a ferocious shot from just in front of the box to settle matters, directing his hit towards the top corner. His goal surely should be in contention for the goal of the group stage.
David Pagou's side ensured that their temporary spell of control ended with a reward, a goal that fans across Yaounde and every other part of Cameroon can be proud of.
The showdown remained in its tense state till it climaxed, but no further goal got the oxygen of reality.
Irrespective of the outcome, both nations had earned progression to the next round before kick-off, and Mozambique, having now finished third in the group, will face Nigeria in the last sixteen (16), while Cameroon, who ended the group second (2nd) and will face South Africa.
