Controversy at AFCON as Cameroon advances to knockouts amid handball controversy reminiscent of Maradona
Gambia’s equalizing goal was disallowed by VAR due to a clear handball. This decision came after a dramatic match at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) where Cameroon narrowly avoided being knocked out in the group stage. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana watched the chaos unfold from the bench as Cameroon’s fate hung in the balance.
The second half of the match was filled with five goals and intense drama. Cameroon, needing a victory to avoid an early exit, took the lead in the 56th minute. Despite a subsequent own goal giving them a lifeline, a draw was not enough unless Senegal, led by Sadio Mane, scored another goal in their match against Guinea.
Christopher Wooh scored a stoppage-time goal, sparking jubilation among Cameroon fans. However, Gambia’s Muhammad Sanneh appeared to have secured a late equalizer, sending the crowd into fervent celebration. Cameroon’s goalkeeper, Fabrice Ondoa, vehemently protested to the referee, claiming a handball. After a VAR review, it was confirmed that the goal was indeed scored with a handball, similar to Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal.
This ruling ultimately secured Cameroon’s qualification to the next round of the competition and dashed Gambia’s hopes.
