In a devastating blow for Cameroonian football, the Indomitable Lions have failed to qualify for the next World Cup, leaving their star players, including Manchester United's Bryan Mbeumo, in despair. The dream of competing in the United States, Canada, and Mexico was shattered after a last-gasp defeat in the African qualification play-offs.
A Campaign That Fell Short
The final international break concluded with Cameroon finishing second in their group, a significant four points behind the surprise group winners, Cape Verde. This placement forced them into a high-stakes play-off against DR Congo, a team from another group. Despite entering the match as strong favourites, Cameroon suffered an agonising 1-0 loss.
The decisive moment came deep into added time, when former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba scored the winning goal for DR Congo. The goal triggered wild celebrations from the victors, while the Cameroonian players collapsed to the turf in disbelief and despair.
Heartbreak for Premier League Stars
The defeat means several prominent Premier League figures will be absent from the global tournament. Bryan Mbeumo, a key talisman for his national team, was captured on video in a state of visible fury and frustration as he left the pitch in the rain, having to be consoled by staff.
He will miss the competition alongside his former Manchester United teammate, André Onana, who now plays for Trabzonspor. Another player linked with United, Carlos Baleba, who also featured in Thursday's crushing defeat, will share their disappointment.
This failure is a significant event in African football history. Cameroon has only missed three World Cups since its 1982 debut and holds the record for the most appearances by an African nation, with eight. Their qualifying campaign was underwhelming, with just five wins, and the pressure is now mounting on coach Marc Brys.
Political Tensions and What's Next
Brys's appointment was already controversial, as he was installed by the country's sports ministry against the wishes of federation president and former Chelsea and Barcelona striker, Samuel Eto'o. This political rift adds another layer of complexity to the team's failure.
For Mbeumo, who has scored seven goals in 26 appearances for his country, and Onana, a veteran with 52 caps, the dream is over. Meanwhile, DR Congo, whose squad includes West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Burnley's Axel Tuanzebe, and Sunderland's Noah Sidiki, will now face Nigeria in the final qualifying round for a place at the World Cup.
