AFCON 2021: Vincent Aboubakar replicates Victor Moses 2013 feat as Cameroon edge out Burkina Faso

The hosts got off to a perfect start as they came down from a goal down to beat the 2013 runners-up and send a warning to the rest of their rivals 

Vincent Aboubakar was the hero as Cameroon began the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-1 win over Burkina Faso at the Stade Omnisport Paul Biya, Olembé on Sunday evening.

The competition got off following a beautiful opening ceremony. Cameroon went into the game, hoping to start on a bright note as hosts.

However, despite dominating possession, it was Burkina Faso that took the lead courtesy of a well-struck volley from Gustavo Sangaré in the 25th minute.

The opener stunned the hosts, and it looked like they would go into half-time behind. However, a moment of madness inside the box from Burkina Faso’s captain Bertrand Traore allowed Aboubakar to convert from the spot in the 40th minute.

Moments later, Cameroon took the lead through Aboubakar, who converted from the spot again after Burkina Faso committed another dangerous foul in the box.

Aboubakar’s two strikes mean he is the first player to score two penalties inside 90 minutes in an AFCON game since ex-Super Eagles winger Victor Moses did the same against Ethiopia in 2013.

His goals also ensured Cameroon went into the break with the lead. The second half resumed with Burkina Faso trying to find an equaliser, but it was Toni Conceição’s men that had the ball in the back of the next, although it was ruled out by VAR.

Nonetheless, Cameroon held on for the victory as they began their quest for a sixth AFCON title on a bright note.