By Harry Awurumibe, Editor Abuja Bureau
Expectedly, one of the Indomitable Lions star players and Asian-based Vincent Aboubakar scored two first half goals from the penalty spot as Cameroon came from behind to beat Burkina Faso 2-1 in the opening match of the 33rd African Cup of Nations (AFCON) played at Olembe Stadium in Yaounde on Sunday.
Thanks to two penalties by Vincent Aboubakar to win the curtain-raiser at the Africa Cup of Nations.
But it was Burkina Faso that drew the first blood as an acrobatic volley from Gustavo Sangare put the Burkinabes ahead midway through the first half of the keenly contested match watched by the President of Republic of Cameroon, Paul Biya and his wife as well as FIFA and CAF Presidents, Gianni Infantino and Patrice Motsepe.
However, two well taken penalties from Captain Vincent Aboubakar turned the game around for the hosts before half-time, no thanks to the two unnecessary challenges in the box by Burkina Faso players.
Indomitable Lions keeper Andre Onana made two crucial second-half saves as Toni Conceicao’s side opened their Group A campaign with victory.
Meanwhile, in the second game of the day, the Blue Sharks of Cape Verde defeated Ethiopia 1-0.
It was Cape Verde’s first victory at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) since 2013.
With the victory, Cape Verde are now second in the group, with hosts Cameroon occupying first position, after earning 3 points against Burkina Faso who are now third in the group.
