The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon thrilled their fans on 9 January 2022 with a spectacular comeback to beat the Stallions of Burkina Faso by two goals to one in the first match of the 33rd edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This resilient performance was witnessed by the President of the Republic, His Excellency Paul BIYA, who declared open the much-awaited competition before a vibrant public at the newly-constructed Olembe stadium. The Head of State was accompanied by First Lady Chantal BIYA whose exuberance energised the over 40,000 spectators in attendance.

The event was marked by a colourful opening ceremony that showcased the cultural diversity and legendary hospitality of the Cameroonian people. This was preceded by an exalting welcome reserved to the Presidential Couple.

The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Dr Patrice Motsepe thanked President Paul BIYA and the people of Cameroon for their firm determination to organise the continental football jamboree. He concluded that Africans must believe in themselves because the TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 is an opportunity to display the best of football from Cameroon and Africa.