Mbeumo Expresses Disappointment Over Cameroon’s Afcon Exit

Cameroon Forward Reflects on Quarter-Final Loss to Morocco

Bryan Mbeumo, who plays for Cameroon, expressed his sorrow regarding the team’s performance during their quarter-final match against Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), stating that their initial display was a key factor in the loss. The defeat left him feeling “really sad” about the early exit from the tournament.

The Indomitable Lions were defeated 2-0 at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat on Friday, with Brahim Diaz and Ismael Saibiri scoring for the hosts amidst an electrifying atmosphere from the crowd.

Having debuted for Cameroon in 2022 after previously representing France at youth levels, the 26-year-old Mbeumo participated in all five matches of the tournament but did not score, although he did provide an assist in the opening game against Gabon.

“We didn’t manage to play our preferred style, but in the second half we proved we could control the game better,” Mbeumo remarked to BBC Sport Africa. “They capitalized on their opportunities, and we commend them for that.”

Despite Mbeumo’s appeals for a penalty during the second half, Cameroon’s head coach, David Pagou, shared his player’s perspective on their performance.

Mixed Feelings for Coach Pagou

“It’s accurate to say the players were slightly hesitant at the beginning,” Pagou noted. “However, we definitely showed improvement in the second half and became more competitive.”

Overall, Pagou expressed pride in his squad’s efforts, highlighting their journey and the emotional impact it had on their fans. “The goal was to evoke strong feelings among the Cameroonian supporters, which we succeeded in doing. Unfortunately, it’s Morocco that halts our progress.”

Pagou only took charge of the team shortly before the tournament commenced, advancing from a junior position after the controversial dismissal of Belgian coach Marc Brys by the Cameroonian Football Federation, headed by Samuel Eto’o, who attended the match.

In building a youthful squad, Cameroon opted to leave out several seasoned players, including goalkeeper Andre Onana. Among the promising talents was Bayer Leverkusen’s Christian Kofane, who made a notable impression by scoring in matches against Mozambique and South Africa after starting his professional career just a year earlier in Spain’s second division.

“Our squad is rich in talent and youth, which is encouraging for the future,” Mbeumo added.

Diaz Shines as Morocco’s Key Player

The caution displayed by some of the younger Cameroonian players in the first half was likely exacerbated by the intense atmosphere in the stadium. Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui stated that his team played with the energy of “12 players” and delivered perhaps their most impressive performance since their remarkable semi-final journey in the 2022 World Cup.

Saibiri, who scored one of the two goals for Morocco, described the incredible support from the fans as “amazing.” He expressed hope that the fans will continue to rally behind the team as they aim for victory in future matches.

With this victory, Morocco has advanced to their first Afcon semi-final since 2004, seeking to secure only their second continental title, the last of which came 50 years ago. Defensive player Romain Saiss, who has not participated since a prior injury, remarked on making history and the team’s collective mentality.

Diaz is currently recognized as the tournament’s leading scorer, having netted a total of five goals, which includes three in the group stages and another two against Tanzania and Cameroon respectively. Regragui highlighted Diaz as Morocco’s standout player, referring to him as the team’s “X factor.”

“If he scores, it significantly impacts us, but it’s essential that he also fulfills his responsibilities to the team and embraces the philosophy I promote,” Regragui emphasized, remarking on Diaz’s potential to become one of the best in the world.

Morocco’s next challenge will be against Algeria or Nigeria, who will face off in Marrakesh at 16:00 GMT on Saturday.