AFCON: Mbeumo rules out Cameroon pressure ahead of opener

Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo has ruled out the national team being under pressure heading into their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener in Morocco.

Ahead of their opening fixture against Gabon at Stade Adrar on Wednesday, the Manchester United attacker expressed his delight at finally getting the opportunity to feature at Africa’s flagship international competition.

“For me, there is no pressure. Wherever I have played, I have always wanted to win. Cameroon has a great history at the AFCON with many successes, and we will try to represent the country well,” said Mbeumo as quoted by CAFOnline.com.

‘I’ve been waiting for this moment’

“Like everyone else, he expects me to make a difference through my voice, my dribbling, and everything I can bring to help the team achieve results. That’s what we are working towards.”

On taking part in the AFCON, Mbeumo, who has who has scored six goals in 16 English Premier League appearances this season, said: “I’m really excited. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time, and I’m very happy to be part of the squad here in Morocco.

“It’s a source of pride for all Africans. In my family, we’ve always watched the AFCON, and for them to now see me play in it will be a great honour. It’s a very special competition to take part in.”

Cameroon are one of Africa’s major forces in the Africa Cup of Nations. Cameroon won its first tournament in 1984, Cameroon emerged and became a fearsome power of the tournament, winning the tournament again in 2000 and 2002.

The 2017 tournament was the last tournament to date Cameroon has won.