Cape Verde’s Comeback Keeps Dream Alive — But Final Day Drama Awaits in CAF Group D

Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

Cape Verde fought back from 3–1 down to draw in Libya and remain top of CAF World Cup qualifying Group D, setting up a tense final day with regional giants Cameroon still within reach of an automatic qualification place.

The Blue Sharks could have booked their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with victory in Tripoli, but instead saw their lead cut to just two points after Cameroon secured a 2–0 win away to Mauritius.

With only one automatic qualification spot available, Group D will go to the wire on Monday when Cape Verde host Eswatini and Cameroon welcome Angola.

 Cape Verde Show Resilience, But Miss Golden Chance

Cape Verde had one hand on a historic first-ever World Cup qualification when they led Libya early on. But defensive frailties and a spirited response from the hosts saw them concede three times, trailing 3–1 before rallying to salvage a 3–3 draw.

It was a result that underscored their fighting spirit but also highlighted lingering vulnerabilities. Against a Libyan side no longer in contention, the Blue Sharks failed to see out a match they had the quality to win.

That single point, however, keeps them two clear of Cameroon and with their fate still in their own hands.

 Cameroon Keep Pressure On

In Mauritius, Cameroon did what was required. Goals in either half ensured a professional 2–0 win that keeps them firmly in the race.

Under coach Marc Brys, the Indomitable Lions haven’t always been dominant during this campaign, but they now sit two points behind Cape Verde and will return home for their final fixture with qualification still within reach.

 Déjà Vu: Cameroon Haunted by 2005 Collapse

For Cameroon, this scenario is all too familiar — and fans will remember the pain of 2005 all too well.

Back then, during the qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the Indomitable Lions entered the final matchday needing a win at home against Egypt to top the group and edge out Côte d’Ivoire. Leading 1–0 and with everything in their hands, the game turned. Egypt equalised, and deep into stoppage time, Cameroon were awarded a penalty.

Pierre Womé stepped up — and missed. The 1–1 draw meant Côte d’Ivoire overtook them to claim the World Cup spot. Cameroon were left devastated.

Nearly 20 years later, the situation bears striking similarities. Once again, they trail the group leaders by two points heading into the final round. Once again, they play at home. And once again, they need both a win and help elsewhere to avoid heartbreak.

The Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé will host a match thick with tension and history.

📊 Group D Standings (After Matchday 9)

🗓️ Final Fixtures – Monday 13 October

• 🇨🇻 Cape Verde vs Eswatini – Estádio Nacional, Praia
• 🇨🇲 Cameroon vs Angola – Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium, Yaoundé

 The Stakes

CAF’s new World Cup qualifying format gives no margin for error. Only the group winners advance automatically to the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Second-placed teams have only a slim chance through a separate playoff and intercontinental route.

For Cape Verde, the equation is simple: win, and history is theirs. For Cameroon, it’s win — and wait.

Libya and Angola are no longer in the race, but the Palancas Negras could still play kingmakers in Yaoundé.

 Cape Verde’s Rise

Whatever the outcome on Monday, Cape Verde’s progress is undeniable. From being minnows not long ago to now topping a group containing former African champions, their journey has inspired fans across the continent.

The Blue Sharks have never been this close to a World Cup. But football history is full of final-day twists — and they’ll need both composure and quality to take the final step.

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