Cameroon Faces Eswatini in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

YAOUNDE, Cameroon — On Thursday, Cameroon will host Eswatini in a vital CAF Fifa World Cup qualifier at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium. The match kicks off at 9 PM (CAT, GMT+2).

The Indomitable Lions are currently second in Group D, holding 12 points and trailing Cape Verde by just one point. Cameroon remains unbeaten with two wins and two draws in their last four matches, including a recent 3-1 victory over Libya.

In the last encounter between Cameroon and Eswatini, the teams played to a surprising 0-0 draw, but Cameroon will be firm favorites in this matchup, given Eswatini’s struggles. The visiting team finds itself at the bottom of Group D, having yet to secure a win, with only two points from six matches.

Cameroon’s national team coach, Marc Brys, expressed confidence in his squad, highlighting key players like Bryan Mbeumo from Manchester United, who has shown exceptional form in the Premier League. “We aim for a strong performance to make our qualifications clearer,” Brys stated prior to the match.

On the other hand, Eswatini’s coach, Zdravko Logarusic, will lead his team despite ongoing speculation about his position. Marketing and communications officer Muzi Radebe confirmed Logarusic’s presence ahead of this crucial tie.

Eswatini forward Philani Mkhonto is poised to make an impact, having recently scored twice in their last qualifier against Mauritius. “We are looking to capitalize on every opportunity,” Mkhonto mentioned.

The two teams have met once before, with a record of one draw and no wins for Eswatini. Cameroon has won five out of their last six matches against teams lower than them in the FIFA rankings, and they will seek to extend this favorable trend.

The stakes are high for both teams, as Cameroon aims to maintain its momentum toward direct World Cup qualification while Eswatini hopes to end their qualifying campaign on a positive note. As the match approaches, anticipation builds for what could be a decisive encounter.