Cameroon’s World Cup Hopes Hit Hard by Key Injuries

Cameroon’s path to the 2026 World Cup just got tougher. Days before their big playoff game against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Indomitable Lions have lost two key players — and might be missing a third.

Veteran forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Napoli star Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa have both been ruled out of Thursday’s playoff in Rabat, Morocco. To make matters worse, goalkeeper Andre Onana is also uncertain after hurting his ankle, according to the Cameroon Football Federation.

Choupo-Moting is out with a knee sprain, while Anguissa suffered a hamstring injury during Tuesday’s training session. Anguissa, who turns 30 on Sunday, has been in great form this season, scoring four goals for Napoli in Serie A.

The timing couldn’t be worse for Cameroon. They’re playing in a playoff mini-tournament that gives four of Africa’s best runners-up one last chance to reach the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Thursday’s game against DR Congo is a must-win. If Cameroon wins, they’ll move on to Sunday’s final in Rabat, where they’ll face either Gabon or Nigeria. The winner of that match will then play in the intercontinental playoff in March, where the last spots for the 48-team World Cup will be decided.

Cameroon has a proud World Cup history — the Indomitable Lions have appeared in the tournament eight times, more than any other African nation. Now, they’ll have to rely on their depth and fighting spirit to stay in the race.

Coach Rigobert Song faces a big challenge. Losing three key players this close to such an important game is tough, but Cameroon will need to regroup fast. Their World Cup dream is still alive, but it will take determination, teamwork, and belief to keep it going.

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