2026 World Cup qualifiers/ Cape Verde makes history, Cameroon’s World Cup dream in Peril
African football witnessed a historic milestone on Monday as Cape Verde became the first team to secure a direct spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup from the continent’s qualifiers. The Blue Sharks dominated Eswatini 3-0 in Praia to win Group D, sparking jubilant celebrations.
The breakthrough came in the second half with goals from Livramento and Willy Semedo, sealing an unforgettable victory.
With 23 points, Cape Verde’s remarkable campaign serves as a powerful testament to perseverance, sending a strong message to the continent’s traditional powerhouses.
In stark contrast, Cameroon’s hopes were dealt a severe blow after a frustrating 0-0 draw at home against Angola. The Indomitable Lions, needing a win and a favor from elsewhere, failed to break down a resilient Angolan side.
This result not only ends Cameroon’s bid for direct qualification but also leaves their playoff chances hanging by a thread.
With 19 points, they must now anxiously await results from other groups to see if they rank among the four best runners-up.
The path to North America has become exceedingly narrow for Marc Brys’s team, while Cape Verde’s historic journey is just beginning.
