Cameroons Late Loss Ends 2026 World Cup Hopes

Cameroon suffered a heartbreaking late defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday, ending their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and leaving Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo visibly distraught after playing the full match in Rabat, Morocco.

The Indomitable Lions, who hold the African record with eight previous World Cup appearances, entered the semifinal of the continental playoffs as one of the most successful African nations in the tournament's history. A spot in the final against Nigeria, who advanced after a 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon, would have offered Cameroon a chance at an intercontinental playoff in March for one of the expanded 48-team field's final berths. Instead, Chancel Mbemba of Lille scored in the 91st minute to secure a 1-0 win for DR Congo, who will now face Nigeria on Sunday for Africa's remaining playoff opportunity.

Mbeumo, the 26-year-old Cameroon international, started and completed the 90 minutes but could not inspire an equalizer. According to match reports, he came close to opening the scoring in the 65th minute, firing a shot just wide of DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi's post. That missed opportunity drew criticism...