Cameroon’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain after a frustrating 0-0 draw with Angola at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé.
The result, combined with Cape Verde’s 3-0 win over Eswatini, means the Indomitable Lions could miss both direct qualification and the play-offs.
Cameroon started with intensity, earning a corner inside the opening minute. Yet their early spark faded quickly as Angola’s organized defense kept them at bay. Despite controlling possession, the hosts failed to convert dominance into clear chances.
Nouhou Tolo created Cameroon’s first real opening in the 27th minute, but his close-range shot went straight at goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
Angola nearly punished them before the break, forcing André Onana into a fingertip save that deflected a free-kick onto the crossbar.
After half-time, Cameroon pushed harder. Karl Etta Eyong tested Marques again, while Zambo Anguissa and Arthur Avom Ebong sent shots narrowly wide. Angola also threatened when Mabululu missed from close range.
In the closing moments, Cameroon came close to a late winner. Substitute Vincent Aboubakar saw his low strike denied by Marques, while Onana’s crossbar saved the hosts once more near the end.
The stalemate leaves Cameroon’s qualification hopes in serious doubt. With Cape Verde already through, they risk losing their play-off position to Nigeria, the DRC, or Uganda.
Their inconsistent performances throughout the campaign have exposed issues with creativity and composure in attack.
As the group stage nears its end, Cameroon must wait for other results to know their fate.
Their World Cup ambitions, once strong, now rest on the outcomes of their continental rivals.
