Cape Verde vs Cameroon: Decisive World Cup qualifier in Praia

FCF rejects Cameroon's accusations

In a late-night communiqué, the FCF dismissed claims that Cameroon’s delegation was deliberately frustrated upon arrival in Praia and denied access to proper facilities. “These accusations are false and unfounded,” the statement said, stressing that Cameroon’s 78-man delegation was processed at the airport in less than an hour, with 44 visas prepaid by Cape Verde to ease entry. The FCF further accused Cameroon’s players of invading the pitch at Estadio da Várzea while a veterans’ tournament match was still in progress, forcing police to intervene. Cameroon later refused to train, which the federation described as “bad faith” and an attempt to create artificial controversy.

The FCF also pointed out that at Monday’s pre-match technical meeting, Cameroon did not raise any formal complaints to the match commissioner. Officials insist that the visitors had already been granted two training sessions, including at the Estadio Nacional, the official match venue.

Cameroon's version of events

Earlier, Cameroon’s team press officer Thierry Ndoh told media that the Lions Indomptables had been deliberately obstructed, arriving at Varzea to find another game in progress at their scheduled slot. The team reportedly returned to train indoors. This is not the first time Cameroon has complained of hostile conditions abroad. Analysts note that such disputes often surface in high-stakes qualifiers, where mental games and logistical pressures play as much a role as tactics on the pitch.

Stakes higher than ever

The clash itself could define Group D. Cape Verde lead with 16 points, Cameroon trail with 14. A win would catapult Cameroon top, leaving them in control of their path to direct qualification. A draw would maintain the gap and increase pressure on Cameroon to win both remaining games. Defeat would push the Lions toward the uncertainty of playoffs. Goal difference currently favors Cameroon (+11 to Cape Verde’s +4), but only a victory in Praia guarantees control of destiny.

For Cape Verde, a win today would almost seal a ticket to North America 2026. With fixtures left against Libya and Eswatini, the Requins Bleus could qualify directly for their first ever World Cup. For Cameroon, failure to return from Praia with three points risks yet another turbulent qualifying campaign, despite a squad packed with experience and individual stars.

Team news and expectations

Cameroon coach Marc Brys is expected to stick with veteran captain Vincent Aboubakar, despite questions over his form and lack of club football since May. He will be supported by Bryan Mbeumo and Georges-Kévin Nkoudou in attack. Nouhou Tolo returns at left-back after suspension risk kept him out against Eswatini, while Jackson Tchatchoua anchors the right flank. In central defense, Brys is set to field a younger pair – Christopher Wooh and Flavien Boyomo – leaving Michael Ngadeu on the bench after public calls for him to step aside.

Cape Verde, buoyed by home support of over 15,000 fans, will rely on their cohesive midfield and quick counterattacks. Coach Bubista is counting on players like Ryan Mendes and Jamiro Monteiro to disrupt Cameroon’s rhythm. Local supporters believe this is the best chance in history to take down an African giant and book a ticket to the World Cup.

Politics and sport intertwined

Beyond tactics, Cameroon’s build-up reflects wider dysfunction. The presence of a large, controversial Ministry of Sports delegation in Praia has reignited criticism of wasteful spending and blurred roles between FECAFOOT and government officials. Critics argue the resources would be better invested in grassroots development than bureaucratic trips. Once again, off-field issues threaten to overshadow the team’s mission.

By kickoff, the noise off the pitch will be replaced by 90 minutes of high-stakes football. For Cameroon, it is about restoring pride and keeping hopes alive. For Cape Verde, it is about making history. In either case, tonight’s result could reshape African qualifying and decide who earns the right to fly to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.