The strain is actual as Cameroon and DR Congo lock horns within the CAF World Cup playoff semi-final this Thursday, November 13, 2025, on the Al-Barid Stadium in Morocco. For each groups, this isn’t simply one other qualifier; it’s a do-or-die battle for a ticket to the ultimate, the place the winner will face both Nigeria or Gabon. The final word prize? A spot within the inter-confederation playoffs subsequent March and a shot on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cameroon, who Softfootball understands are eight-time World Cup contributors, are determined to maintain their proud report alive, whereas DR Congo are dreaming huge, chasing their first World Cup look since 1974.
Group Information
The Indomitable Lions have obtained a well timed enhance with Yvan Neyou, Jean Onana, Enzo Boyomo, and Darlin Yongwa all returning to the fold. Andre Onana is anticipated to start out between the sticks, whereas Bryan Mbeumo, who was the hero when Cameroon defeated Mauritius 2-nil, stays their greatest attacking risk, contemporary off a powerful run of kind for membership and nation.
In addition they launched video footage of the groups coaching by way of the Federation’s official X account.
Watch the video under:
For DR Congo, it’s a extra worrying image. A number of key names, Yoane Wissa, Dimitri Bertaud, Dylan Batubinsika, Grady Diangana, Jackson Muleka, and Afimico Pululu, are all out via damage. Nonetheless, the expertise of Cédric Bakambu, their prime scorer with 4 targets, provides them some hope up entrance.
Potential Lineups
Cameroon (4-3-3): A Onana; Tchatchoua, Castelletto, Nouhou, Nagida; Avom, Baleba, Anguissa; Nkoudou, Eyong, Mbeumo
DR Congo (4-4-2): Mpasi; Masuaku, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Wan-Bissaka; Mbuku, Moutoussamy, Mukau, Kayembe; Essende, Bakambu
Cameroon hasn’t misplaced to DR Congo in 9 consecutive conferences (W6, D3), a stat that tells its personal story. Whereas the Congolese had the higher qualifying run (22 factors to Cameroon’s 19), the Indomitable Lions’ pedigree and expertise on the massive stage may make the distinction.
Anticipate a gritty contest, perhaps just a few nervy moments, however Cameroon would possibly simply have sufficient firepower and management to edge it.
Prediction: Cameroon 2–1 DR Congo
