Amad opens up on “tough” duel with United pal Mbeumo after thrilling Ivory Coast vs. Cameroon AFCON clash

Manchester United star Amad has opened up on coming against club teammate Bryan Mbeumo following Ivory Coast’s 1-1 draw with Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations. Amad taking AFCON by storm Amad produced a sensational performance, earning the Ivory Coast a valuable point during their meeting with Cameroon on Sunday evening. He has been in sensational form, scoring the only goal of the Elephants’ 1-0 opening victory over Mozambique before following that up with a stunner in the draw vs. Cameroon. Amad gave his country the lead in the 51st minute when he expertly cut in before firing into the back of the net with his left foot. Savour that shot by Amad Diallo. It was that good. 🇨🇮#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 | #WePlayDifferent pic.twitter.com/Wybodt4b7W — TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) December 28, 2025 However, Mbeumo’s Cameroon drew level just five minutes later through a Ghislain Konan own goal. The two West African nations had to settle for a share of the spoils. Replicating his impact from the Mozambique game, Amad earned the Man of the Match award once again. After the final whistle, Amad swapped shirts with Mbeumo. He conducted his post-match media obligations in Mbeumo’s jersey. Amad told reporters that he spoke to Mbeumo before the contest. Amad speaks The 23-year-old said [as quoted by ESPN], “Bryan is a good teammate; good lad. We talked before the game. I told him after the game, we can change jerseys.” “He is a good lad and I wish him all the best with Cameroon. I want to think about myself, about my team, and try to win the last game.” Amad downplayed his goal against Cameroon, saying it doesn’t rank highly among his best. “It’s a good goal, but I don’t think it’s one of the best. I was happy – I wanted to win the game especially, but the goal [does have some significance] for me.” He continued, “Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon are big nations. This game was a big game. Cameroon have quality in the team. Bryan and Carlos Baleba play in the Premier League, so we knew in the beginning that it was going to be very tough to win this game.” “We were unlucky to draw the game, so now, we’re going to focus on the next game against Gabon and try to win that game.” Up next for Cameroon is Gabon. A point would be enough to see them through to the last 16. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!