Congo and Cameroon played out a hard-fought 1–1 draw, with an unfortunate second-half own goal canceling out Congo’s first-half advantage in a tense encounter.
Congo grabbed the opening goal in the 24th minute when Bantsiele found the back of the net off an assist from Yvan Dimi, putting the hosts ahead mid-way through the first half.
However, Cameroon dragged themselves level early in the second period through a moment of misfortune for the home side. In the 53rd minute, Congolese goalkeeper Melvin Zinga conceded an own goal, restoring parity for the visiting Indomitable Lions.
As both sides pushed for a winner, the match grew increasingly physical. Referees issued four cautions across the second half, booking Congo’s Hondermarck in the 56th minute and Namboka in the 72nd minute, both for fouls. Cameroon’s Nagida (64′) and Nyengue (84′) were also shown yellow cards for challenges.
Despite four added minutes of stoppage time, neither team could break the stalemate, forcing Congo and Cameroon to settle for a point apiece at the final whistle.
