Mbombela, South Africa – In a pivotal clash in Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions are set to face Eswatini on March 19, 2025, at the Mbombela Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 4 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT). This matchup not only highlights the current standings but also showcases the contrasting fortunes of both teams as Cameroon leads the group while Eswatini remains at the bottom.
Cameroon enters the contest with a robust standing, occupying the top spot in Group D with eight points after four matches, comprising two wins and two draws. The team, which boasts a formidable roster, has created a buzz with its recent performances under coach Marc Brys, who has maintained an undefeated record with four wins and two draws in six matches. This holds strong despite off-field tensions between Brys and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) president Samuel Eto'o, who has been criticized for hiring Brys.
In the lead-up to the match, Brys and his team arrived in South Africa on March 17, prepared and focused, having conducted a final training session on the pitch where they will face off against Eswatini. Star midfielder Frank Zambo Anguissa is available for selection after overcoming an injury concern that had initially kept him doubtful for the match. However, the Cameroonian side might miss out on some key talents, as Yvan Neyou's status is still uncertain due to a minor injury from club commitments.
Meanwhile, Eswatini has struggled notably throughout the qualifiers, firmly positioned at the bottom of Group D with zero points from four matches and only one goal scored against Mauritius. Eswatini's coach, Zdravko Logarusic, who views Cameroon as one of the continent’s premier teams, emphasized the significance of this match. "What is very important is that tomorrow we have to see a big national team full of stars," he noted in pre-match comments. Despite their challenges, Logarusic is determined to instill confidence in his players.
In a heartfelt declaration, Logarusic said, “Our target is to show the best of ourselves. We are a small country with a small league and not much population, but let’s show the best of ourselves on the field.” He also acknowledged the formidable nature of the Cameroonian squad, stating, “We have to be clear, there are no weaknesses in that team. They are a big team and we must respect them.”
With the match being held at a neutral venue, Eswatini will be looking to channel the support of their fans to make an impact against a team that is seen as a heavyweight contender in the qualifiers. The stadium can accommodate up to 43,589 spectators, offering a fitting platform for this significant encounter.
Broadcast coverage includes live coverage on CRTV Sports in Cameroon, Eswatini TV, and the FIFA+ streaming platform for subscribers, ensuring fans from both nations can witness the action unfold. This match not only represents an opportunity for Cameroon to further solidify their position at the top of the standings but also provides Eswatini with a chance to turn their fortunes around after a string of disappointing results.
Eswatini, despite their challenges, will look towards notable players like defender Mxolisi Mkhontfo and striker Felix Badenhorst; the latter serves as a critical figure in their attacking line. As they prepare to face the well-organized Cameroonian team, Eswatini hopes to capitalize on any potential openings that may present themselves during the match.
Additionally, after this encounter, Eswatini will face Mauritius on March 23, potentially a crucial match for gaining momentum in their qualifying campaign.
In summary, as Cameroon seeks to extend its lead in Group D, the stakes are high not only for their World Cup ambitions but also for Eswatini, who are eager for a breakthrough performance. With high expectations on both sides, the match promises to be an exciting and competitive encounter as they vie for crucial points in their quests to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
