Cameroon’s World Cup hopes dented by Cape Verde defeat

Cape Verde Edge Closer to Direct Qualification

With the victory, Cape Verde tightened their grip on Group D, now requiring just one win from their last two fixtures — away to Libya and at home to Eswatini — to secure a direct ticket to the World Cup. Cameroon, on the other hand, must not only win their remaining matches but also hope Cape Verde stumble twice — an increasingly improbable scenario.

Brys Under Fire for Aboubakar Gamble

Coach Marc Brys’ post-match words — “On a perdu, c’est ça le football” — did little to calm tempers in Yaoundé. The Belgian is under intense scrutiny for persisting with captain Vincent Aboubakar, who has not played at club level since May. Despite his legendary record, Aboubakar’s lack of fitness was glaring: he managed no shot on target in 170 minutes across the last two qualifiers. Critics argue Brys’ reliance on him has stifled Cameroon’s offensive options.

The Weight of a Record

Behind the tactical debate looms a more troubling narrative: pressure from influential circles allegedly intent on pushing Aboubakar to surpass Samuel Eto’o’s all-time scoring record with the national team. This fixation, observers warn, risks sabotaging Cameroon’s collective ambitions in favor of individual legacy politics.

Play-Off Chances Slim

Adding to the woes, Cameroon currently sits outside the top four second-placed teams that will enter the play-offs. Unless results across Africa tilt dramatically, the Lions risk missing not just direct qualification but also the lifeline of a playoff spot.

Cameroon’s World Cup dream is hanging by a thread. Unless Marc Brys makes bold tactical choices and moves beyond sentiment, the Lions may pay the ultimate price: absence from the global stage in 2026. The question is whether leadership within the squad and federation is willing to confront uncomfortable truths before it is too late.