January 17, (THEWILL) – In a closely contested match between regional rivals, Cameroon and Congo, in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Monday, Cameroon secured a crucial 1-0 win, thanks to a second-half header by Jerome Ngom Mbekeli.
The 24-year-old player for local side, Colombe, connected Ramses Nguimzeu’s cross from the left in the 63rd minute, handing the Intermediate Lions the victory at the Oran Olympic Stadium.
The match saw both teams create several opportunities, but it was Cameroon who ultimately capitalized on their chance. Congo threatened early on with a shot from youngster Sousou Ilendo, but Cameroon responded moments later with a shot from Mbekeli that was tipped over by the Congo goalkeeper.
Despite Congo’s efforts to bring some creativity to their midfield with a substitution at halftime, Cameroon continued to dominate the match, with Mbekeli setting up several opportunities. However, Congo’s late surge in search of an equalizer was unsuccessful as Cameroon’s defense held strong to seal the victory.
With only one team qualifying from the three-team Group E, Cameroon will now wait to see the outcome of Friday’s match between Congo and Niger at the same venue before their next match in the tournament.
