On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Cameroon delivered a commanding performance against Libya, winning 3-1 in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match held at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé. The victory not only boosted Cameroon's standing in the tournament but also showcased the skill and determination of its players amid ongoing internal challenges.
The Indomitable Lions, led by their captain Vincent Aboubakar, who scored twice, and Bryan Mbeumo, who contributed a goal and an assist, demonstrated their prowess on the field. Aboubakar opened the scoring with a penalty in the 27th minute after being fouled in the box. He confidently converted the penalty, putting Cameroon ahead 1-0.
After halftime, Mbeumo extended Cameroon's lead to 2-0 with a stunning low shot in the 53rd minute, showcasing his excellent form. The Brentford star received a well-placed pass from Carlos Baleba, maneuvered past the Libyan defense, and struck a precise shot that found the back of the net.
Just eight minutes later, Aboubakar struck again, scoring his second goal of the match and solidifying Cameroon's dominance at 3-0. Mbeumo's impressive dribbling on the right wing set up Aboubakar for a low cross, which he finished calmly with the side of his foot.
Despite the scoreline, Libya managed to find a consolation goal in the dying moments of the match. El Maremi scored in the 90th+1 minute, reducing the deficit to 3-1. However, it was too late for the Libyans to mount a serious comeback.
This match was particularly significant for Cameroon, especially following a disappointing 0-0 draw against Eswatini earlier in the international break. The Indomitable Lions' performance against Libya was a much-needed rebound, bringing them to within a point of Group D leaders Cape Verde, who defeated Angola 2-1 earlier in the day.
As a result of this victory, Cameroon now sits second in Group D with 12 points, while Libya remains third with 8 points, four points behind Cameroon. The standings indicate a competitive group, with the top team qualifying directly for the World Cup and the runners-up vying for a playoff spot.
Cameroon's captain, Aboubakar, expressed the team's determination to overcome the internal strife affecting their performance. Just a day before the match, he had addressed the media, calling for unity and support from the football authorities. "In light of the serious situation we are facing, we cannot remain silent. Recently, we have encountered difficulties that go beyond the sporting realm and directly impact our performances and the image of our great nation," he stated. His words reflected the urgency for solidarity among the players and the management.
Aboubakar's leadership on and off the field has been crucial for the team, especially considering the backdrop of tensions between the Minister of Sports, Narcisse Mouelle, and the president of the Cameroon Football Federation, Samuel Eto'o. The players have taken on the role of mediators, striving to focus on their game despite the surrounding controversies.
The match against Libya was not just about the scoreline; it was a testament to the resilience of the Indomitable Lions. With Aboubakar's experience and Mbeumo's rising star power, Cameroon is poised to make a significant impact in the qualifiers.
Looking ahead, Cameroon will need to maintain this momentum as they continue their quest for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The upcoming matches will be critical, and the team must remain focused to secure a top finish in their group.
In contrast, Libya's hopes of qualifying have been severely hampered by this defeat. Under the management of Aliou Cissé, they now find themselves in a precarious position, needing to win their remaining matches to have any chance of advancing.
As the World Cup qualifiers progress, the competition intensifies, and every match becomes crucial. For Cameroon, the victory over Libya serves as a reminder of their potential and a stepping stone towards achieving their goal of World Cup qualification. The Indomitable Lions have shown that they can rise to the occasion, and with their captain leading the charge, they are determined to keep fighting for their place on the world stage.
