Teenage sensation Christian Kofane announced himself on the continental scene in style, scoring a spectacular winner as Cameroon rallied to beat Mozambique 2–1 on Wednesday to finish second in Group F at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The 19-year-old Bayer Leverkusen forward, earning just his second cap for the Indomitable Lions, had delayed international duty earlier in the season to focus on his debut Bundesliga campaign, where he has already made his mark.
Cameroon agreed to his late arrival in Morocco, with expectations high for his first tournament appearance.
After wasting a few promising chances in the opening exchanges, Kofane delivered the decisive moment in the 55th minute, unleashing a thunderous strike from the edge of the box that sealed the comeback victory.
Mozambique had stunned Cameroon by taking the lead in the 23rd minute, when Sporting Lisbon striker Geny Catamo fired a powerful low shot from outside the area past the goalkeeper.
Their advantage, however, lasted just five minutes. Cameroon drew level in bizarre fashion after Frank Magri’s effort was deflected by defender Nene onto the post.
As the Mozambican fullback scrambled on the ground to clear the rebound, he inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
Cameroon, five-time AFCON champions, ended the group stage with six points but missed out on top spot to defending champions Ivory Coast on goals scored.
The Ivorians fought back to defeat Gabon 3–2, securing a last-16 clash with Burkina Faso in Marrakech on Tuesday.
Cameroon will now face South Africa in Rabat on Sunday, while Mozambique, who advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams, are set to meet Nigeria in Fes on Monday in their first-ever knockout appearance.
Wednesday’s matches wrapped up the group phase, with the knockout rounds beginning this weekend.
