AFCON 2017: Cameroon crowned 2017 Africa Cup of Nations champions

Cameroon came from behind to beat Egypt 2-1 and seal a fifth Africa Cup of Nations in a thrilling, edgy final.

It is a fifth Cup of Nations crown for the Indomitable Lions, a first since 2002, and the first time they have beaten Egypt in the final in three attempts.

Egypt fell just short on their return to the competition after a seven-year absence, and the defeat will be especially painful for their coach Hector Cuper.

This year’s Nations Cup saw the return of the continents two heavyweight nations, Cameroon and the Pharaohs trade punches in one of the best finals in memory.

The previous six finals returned just three goals, so it was a welcome surprise that Gabon 2017 produced three goals inside 90 minutes.

Having dominated Cameroon in the only other two finals (in 1986 and 2008) the two nations met, Egypt seemed to be on course again, when Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny finished off a fine move that the Gunners would be proud of. The quality 22nd minute series of exchanges started in their own half and included eleven passes before Elneny worked his way inside the box down the right, before beating Fabrice Ondoa high at his near post.

Just before the hour mark, the equalizer came from a Cameroon corner which was played initially to Benjamin Moukandjo. The captain then dipped a cross high into the six-yard line for Nicolas Nkoulou to power a header through.

The momentum was with Cameroon as Egypt were on the ropes waiting for the bell to save them, but just two minutes before the end, Vincent Aboubaker latched onto a Sebastien Siani pass. He flicked it over the defense before volleying past Essam El Hadary in style. A worthy goal to win a final!