Francis Ngannou places €320,000 bet on Cameroon to win AFCON 2025

Cameroonian MMA and boxing star Francis Ngannou has added extra intrigue to the Africa Cup of Nations by placing a 320,000 euros bet on Cameroon to lift the 2025 trophy in Morocco.

Ngannou, one of the most recognisable sporting figures to emerge from Cameroon, publicly declared his backing for the Indomitable Lions ahead of their first game against Gabon, despite the team arriving amid uncertainty and off-field turbulence.

"Good luck to all the participating countries in AFCON 2025. Make us proud," Ngannou said. "I’m betting everything on our Indomitable Lions. With odds at 21, it was hard to resist."

The bold wager comes at a time when Cameroon are seeking to steady themselves after governance disputes, a late managerial change and the disappointment of missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Those issues have raised questions about their readiness, but Ngannou’s confidence reflects a wider belief that Cameroon remain dangerous when underestimated.

Five-time AFCON champions, the Indomitable Lions have a history of defying expectations, most notably during their title run in 2017 amid similar instability.

Ngannou’s high-profile bet has quickly captured attention among fans and pundits, adding pressure and motivation as Cameroon begin their campaign, knowing a nation and one famous fighter are backing them all the way.