Cameroon could enter its crucial 2026 World Cup playoff clash against DR Congo without vice-captain André Onana.
The goalkeeper is struggling with an ankle injury, leaving his participation in serious doubt as the team prepares for the decisive encounter.
Onana’s potential absence adds to the already significant losses of midfielder André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, both confirmed unavailable for the match.
These withdrawals strip Cameroon of several of its most influential players at a critical stage of the qualification campaign.
Medical staff continue to monitor Onana closely, providing intensive treatment and evaluating his readiness daily.
Coaches have begun adjusting training sessions to simulate scenarios without these key figures, emphasising defensive organisation, goalkeeper contingency plans, and attacking variations to compensate for missing offensive threats.
The coaching team faces the difficult task of reorganising the squad’s tactical setup with limited preparation time.
Substitutes will need to step into pivotal roles, and cohesion among remaining starters will prove vital.
Analysts note that Cameroon’s ability to adapt quickly under these circumstances may determine the outcome of this playoff tie.
This match carries enormous stakes: the winner moves closer to securing a spot in the intercontinental playoff, keeping hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup alive.
With injuries disrupting plans, Cameroon must rely on strategic flexibility, disciplined performance, and resilience to overcome the absence of key contributors.
Coach and players remain focused on minimising the impact of the setbacks, but the uncertainty surrounding Onana’s fitness underscores the fragility of the squad ahead of a high-pressure encounter that could define Cameroon’s World Cup journey.
