Dramatic Ajax of the Afcon: Cameroon overturns Mozambique with an own-goal spark and a late winner
31 December 2025
Match snapshot
In a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations group-stage clash in Morocco, Cameroon battled back from a one-goal deficit to beat Mozambique 2-1, securing second place in Group Six and a Round of 16 date with South Africa.
Key moments
Mozambique took the lead in the 23rd minute with Geny Katamu, but in the 28th minute Felisiano “Nini” Joni scored a bizarre own goal to level the scores. A one-on-one save by goalkeeper Ivan Orubal kept Cameroon at bay temporarily, and the rebound struck the post. The goal sparked a chaotic sequence, and Cameroon pressed on until Christian Kovani found the net in the 55th minute to complete the comeback.
The goal generated huge social-media buzz as fans discussed the odd own-goal moment and Cameroon’s resilience as they secured three points to finish behind South Africa in the group. The win sends Cameroon to the knockout stage, where they will face South Africa.
Cameroon celebrated the late turnaround with gusto, and the Mozambican heartbreak quickly spread across highlight reels and timelines alike.
Punchline time: If aim were everything, that own goal would be Cameroon’s greatest transfer—from defense to jubilant chaos in one glorious misdirected moment. And as for the post? It finally understood what it’s like to be the main character for once.
