Kofane stunner seals Cameroon comeback win
Teenage star Christian Kofane announced his arrival on the international stage with a stunning winner as Cameroon came from behind to beat Mozambique 2-1 and finish second in Group F at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The 19-year-old Bayer Leverkusen player was making only his second appearance for the Indomitable Lions, having turned down call-ups earlier this season to concentrate on his first Bundesliga season, where he has already been making an impact.
Cameroon allowed him to stay at Leverkusen until the eve of the tournament in Morocco with his first caps much anticipated.
After squandering several half chances early on, Kofane thrashed home a rocket-like effort from the edge of the area in the 55th minute which would ultimately the game.
Mozambique led after Sporting Lisbon striker Geny Catamo put it ahead in the 23rd minute with a powerful low strike from outside the penalty area.
But the surprise advantage lasted only five minutes before a bizarre own goal tied matters at Grand Stade d’Agadir.
It came when Cameroon striker Frank Magri’s shot was deflected by fullback Nene onto the post. The Mozambique defender had fallen to the ground in the process and as the ball rebounded back at him, he tried to sweep it away from danger but only succeeded in putting it into his own net.
Five-time Africa Cup of Nations winner Cameroon finished with six points but lost out on top place in the group to holder Cote d'Ivoire on goals scored.
Les Elephants also came from behind to beat Gabon 3-2 in stoppage-time and take top place to set up a meeting with Burkina Faso in Marrakech next Wednesday (AEDT).
Cameroon will meet South Africa in Rabat on Monday (AEDT).
Mozambique, who went through to the Round of 16 as one of the best four third-placed finishers, will be up against Nigeria in Fes on Tuesday (AEDT) in its first appearance in the knockout stages of the tournament.
