Cape Verde stumbled in their bid for a maiden World Cup appearance after drawing 3-3 with Libya in a dramatic Group D clash on 8 October.
The result reopened the qualification race, with Cameroon closing the gap to just two points after beating Mauritius 2-0.
The contest in Tripoli began with chaos as Libya struck inside the first minute. A Roberto Lopes own goal stunned the visitors and handed the hosts an early advantage.
Cape Verde responded strongly, and Telmo Arcanjo levelled the score in the 29th minute.
However, Ezoo El Mariamy restored Libya’s lead just before half-time, sending the Knights of the Mediterranean into the break ahead.
Libya extended their control after the restart when Al Shalwi curled a brilliant free-kick into the net.
They nearly put the game beyond reach with a shot that struck the bar and post, but Cape Verde refused to fold. Goalkeeper Murad Al Wuheeshi’s mistake in the 76th minute gifted Cabral a goal, reducing the deficit.
The Blue Sharks then turned the tide as Willy Semedo fired home in the 82nd minute to put them ahead for the first time.
Just as Cape Verde looked set to claim a crucial victory, Libya struck late to salvage a point and keep their qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Cameroon kept their campaign on track with a professional win over Mauritius. After a frustrating first half, Moumi Ngamaleu broke the deadlock in the 56th minute, and Bryan Mbeumo sealed the result in stoppage time.
The draw leaves Group D wide open. With several teams still in contention, the race for a place at the 2026 World Cup promises intense battles in the final rounds.
