Cameroon and DR Congo face off in Thursday night’s CAF World Cup playoff semi-final at the Al Barid Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The Indomitable Lions are Africa’s most experienced World Cup nation, having appeared eight times on football’s biggest stage. They now aim to return after falling short in Qatar 2022, where a famous 1–0 win over Brazil wasn’t enough to escape the group stage.
For DR Congo, this is an opportunity to make history. The Leopards haven’t reached a World Cup since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire. They arrive confident after edging Sudan 1–0 in their final group game to secure their playoff place.
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Cameroon’s captain Vincent Aboubakar and Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo will lead the attack as coach Rigobert Song’s side looks to reassert continental dominance. The five-time African champions finished second in their group after a goalless draw with Angola and are eager to rediscover their scoring form.
DR Congo, led by key playmaker Yoane Wissa, have shown defensive resilience and attacking creativity but remain winless in their last five meetings with Cameroon, losing three and drawing two.
The winner of this tie will advance to Sunday’s playoff final, with a place in the inter-confederation qualifiers at stake. Expect a fierce, attacking contest between two nations chasing a return to the world stage.
For full tactical analysis and statistical insights, read the Cameroon vs DR Congo best bet feature on Africa Picks.
Photo: Vincent Kimto/Gallo Images
