Cameroon are back at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, while Central African Republic extend their run. Winners over Gabon (4-1) and Congo (2-0) respectively, on Wednesday 21 October in Yaoundé, the two sides have secured their tickets to the 2027 finals in Ghana. They will meet on Saturday in the final of the UNIFFAC tournament.

It took a comeback to end the wait. Absent from the 2023 and 2025 editions, the Cameroon U20 Indomitable Lions sealed their return to the continental stage by beating Gabon in the semi-final of the tournament organised by the Union of Central African Football Federations.

Yvan Kenmoe’s side were made to work, however. With a numerical advantage after a Gabon player was sent off early in the match, they conceded the opening goal from a penalty. Cameroon then found the resources to take control again and win by a three-goal margin.

Joachim Songue, who scored twice, Samuel Achu and Bengono Manga got the four Cameroon goals. The response means the young Lions return to a competition they had not played in since 2021.

Central African Republic confirm their consistency

In the other semi-final, Central African Republic saw off Congo (2-0). The Fauves struck just before the break, then again in the closing minutes, to secure a place in the final and confirm their continental qualification.

After a group stage without a win, the Central Africans delivered when it mattered. Their run now takes on a new dimension: they will play in a fourth consecutive U20 AFCON, following the 2021, 2023 and 2025 editions.

Ticket in hand, a trophy to chase

The UNIFFAC final, scheduled for Saturday 24 October, will therefore pit two teams already qualified for the continental finals against each other. Cameroon will look to crown their return, while Central African Republic will try to carry their momentum forward.

Beyond the regional title, the meeting will give both sides a first marker in their preparations for the 2027 U20 AFCON in Ghana. The ticket is secured; all that remains is to finish the tournament with a win.