Cameroon Furious after controversial draw leaves World Cup hopes hanging by a thread

Cameroon’s chances of qualifying directly for the 2026 World Cup have suffered a heavy blow following a dramatic and controversial 3-3 draw between Cape Verde and Libya — a result that has left the Indomitable Lions and their supporters crying foul.

The outcome in Tripoli saw Cape Verde come from 3-1 down to claim a point and maintain a two-point lead at the top of Group D.

For Cameroonian fans, however, the focus has been on Libya’s second-half collapse — particularly the blunder by goalkeeper Wuhayshi, which allowed Cape Verde back into the match.

Many supporters have labelled the incident “shady,” suggesting the nature of the mistake raised suspicions.

Cameroon, who famously eliminated Algeria in the final moments of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, now find themselves needing what many consider a miracle to reach the 2026 tournament in North America.

Their only path forward lies in securing one of the best runners-up spots — a difficult task given the current standings.

To stay in contention, Cameroon must defeat Angola at home on the final matchday and hope that bottom-placed Eswatini, with just three points, somehow manage to hold or beat Cape Verde.

Anything less would end their hopes of automatic progression.

The frustration among Cameroonian supporters is understandable.

Many believe Cape Verde should have lost the match after trailing 3-1 deep into the second half.

The equaliser, born from Libya’s goalkeeping error, has been described in local media as “a gift,” reigniting debates about fairness and fate in football.

Adding to the tension was a controversial offside call late in the match. In stoppage time, Cape Verde appeared poised to score a decisive fourth goal during a counterattack that saw four attackers facing just one defender.

The assistant referee, however, raised his flag for what appeared to be a non-existent offside — a decision that infuriated both sets of fans and left analysts debating whether the Blue Sharks were denied a legitimate winner.

The incident has sparked heated discussions across Cameroonian circles, with some drawing ironic parallels to their own dramatic qualification at Algeria’s expense in 2022.

Then, it was Cameroon who celebrated deep into added time — but now, many fans are suggesting that fate has reversed roles.

With one matchday left, Cameroon’s path to the World Cup looks perilous.

Their destiny no longer lies in their own hands, and unless fortune turns sharply in their favour, the Indomitable Lions could be left reflecting on a campaign defined as much by controversy as by missed opportunities.