Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana produced a number of crucial saves as his team battled to a 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, on Tuesday, September 10.
Onana, who plays for English Premier League side Manchester United, was met with a rapturous reception from over 15,000 Manchester United fans in the crowd.
The goalkeeper lived up to the excitement, showcasing his shot-stopping prowess with some vital saves to keep Zimbabwe at bay.
Despite Cameroon’s attacking firepower, including captain Vincent Aboubakar, Napoli’s Frank Anguissa, Brentford’s Brian Mbeumo, and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, they struggled to break down a determined Zimbabwean defense.
Zimbabwe, who were the nominal hosts for the encounter, mounted a spirited performance. Though the underdogs, they tested Onana throughout the match.
In the 48th minute, Zimbabwe’s Walter Musona unleashed a powerful shot from distance, but Onana made a comfortable save.
Five minutes later, Onana thwarted another attempt from Andrew Farai, and in the 62nd minute, he was again called into action, denying veteran Khama Billiat’s long-range effort with a diving save.
In total, Zimbabwe registered five shots on target compared to Cameroon’s zero. Despite this, Cameroon dominated possession, holding 61% of the ball but failing to convert their control into clear chances.
With this result, Cameroon remains second in Group J, level on points and goal difference with Kenya, but the Harambee Stars lead the group due to having scored more goals.
The two teams are set for a crucial showdown on October 11, when Cameroon will host Kenya in a match that could decide the group’s top spot.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe sits third in the group with two points from two goalless draws. They now turn their focus to a challenging away fixture against Namibia, hoping to secure their first win of the qualifiers.
