Cameroon face DR Congo in a crucial 2026 World Cup playoff at Stade El Barid on Thursday evening.
Both teams aim to revive their campaigns after missing automatic qualification. Victory is essential to reach the playoff final.
The African playoff pairs Cameroon against DR Congo. Nigeria plays Gabon at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex.
Winners will advance to the intercontinental playoffs, keeping their World Cup dreams alive.
Cameroon holds the African record for World Cup appearances with eight trips. They now seek a ninth appearance.
The Indomitable Lions finished behind Cape Verde in Group D, missing direct qualification.
Marc Brys loses Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Andre Onana, and Frank Zambo Anguissa to injury for this match.
Brys will rely on Bryan Mbeumo, Carlos Baleba, and Vincent Aboubakar to lead the attack.
DR Congo qualified as one of the top four runners-up. Their final-day win over Sudan secured this spot.
Coach Patrice Desabre faces missing Yoane Wissa, goalkeeper Dimitri Bertaud, and several key players.
Cedric Bakambu scored four goals in the qualifiers, aiming to approach the national record of Dieumerci Mbokani.
Desabre will likely deploy Arthur Masuaku, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka in defence.
Lionel Mpasi is expected to start in goal for DR Congo.
Thursday’s match promises intensity as both teams fight for World Cup qualification.
