Carlos Baleba faces race against time for Cameroon’s Namibia qualifiers

Cameroon have been handed a potential injury setback after midfielder Carlos Baleba suffered a suspected hamstring injury during Manchester United’s 3-2 victory over Roma in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, November 3.

The Cameroonian international was forced off after experiencing discomfort while accelerating towards the opposition’s goal, immediately clutching the upper part of his thigh in an incident that raised fears of a muscle injury.

Baleba’s withdrawal has sparked concern over his fitness, particularly with Cameroon preparing for their upcoming double-header against Namibia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick expressed his concern after the encounter, admitting that the initial signs surrounding the midfielder’s condition were not encouraging.

“It doesn’t look good. It’s his hamstring; we need to assess the nature of his injury,” Carrick said after the match.

Further medical examinations are expected to establish the extent of the damage and provide a clearer indication of how long the midfielder could remain on the sidelines.

Initial estimates suggest Baleba could be unavailable for between two and four weeks, although his recovery timeline will depend on the results of the medical assessment.

The potential absence represents a major concern for the Indomitable Lions, who are counting on the Manchester United midfielder as they prepare for two important Group G encounters against Namibia.

Cameroon are scheduled to host Namibia on November 12 before travelling for the return fixture on November 16, with both matches carrying significant importance in their quest to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament.

Baleba’s possible absence would leave head coach David Pagou with an important decision to make regarding his midfield options, especially as the team looks to maintain its position at the top of Group G.

With the November international break fast approaching, Cameroon will be hoping the medical assessment brings positive news and that the midfielder can recover in time to join the national team.

A confirmed two-to-four-week absence, however, could rule him out of the entire double-header, dealing a significant blow to the Indomitable Lions’ preparations.