Vincent Aboubakar and Samuel Eto’o shared the same Cameroon dressing room in 2010, a symbolic passing of the torch between two generations of the Indomitable Lions. Today, Eto’o — now President of FECAFOOT — remains the benchmark of African greatness, holding the record as the highest goal scorer in AFCON history with 18 goals. During his legendary career, Eto’o also set the record for most goals in a single AFCON edition with five, a milestone that stood for over a decade.
Vincent Aboubakar and Samuel Eto’o — two eras of Cameroon’s AFCON dominance.
Aboubakar’s Historic 2021 AFCON Explosion
That single-edition record finally fell at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations when Vincent Aboubakar produced a remarkable tournament, scoring eight goals and captaining Cameroon to a third-place finish. His ruthless finishing earned him the Golden Boot and placed him firmly among AFCON’s modern greats, surpassing Eto’o’s long-standing tournament record.
The Unbroken AFCON All-Time Scoring Record
Despite his 2021 heroics, Aboubakar still trails Eto’o’s all-time AFCON tally of 18 goals. The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker remains Africa’s most prolific AFCON scorer, a record officially recognised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and frequently referenced by FIFA as one of the competition’s most iconic statistics.
Time for Transition in the Indomitable Lions?
With Cameroon entering a new generational phase, debates have intensified over Aboubakar’s continued role in the national team. Critics argue that his influence has waned and that international retirement could open space for younger attackers to gain exposure and build long-term continuity. Similar transitions have defined elite football nations, as documented by BBC Sport in its coverage of squad evolution at major tournaments.
Eto’o, Aboubakar and an Unmatched AFCON Legacy
Whether Aboubakar eventually surpasses Eto’o’s AFCON goal record or bows out having defined an era, both players are forever linked in Cameroon’s football story. From their early connection in 2010 to record-breaking AFCON nights, their journeys reflect the rise, dominance and inevitable renewal of African football greatness. Beyond statistics, Eto’o’s leadership legacy — on and off the pitch — continues to shape the game, much like his enduring friendships across African football, including moments such as when Sulley Muntari and Samuel Eto’o shared an unforgettable bond at Inter Milan.
