Congo and Cameroon set for Brazzaville battle in CAN 2027 qualifiers

Congo and Cameroon meet at the Stade Alphonse-Massamba-Debat in Brazzaville in the second round of qualifying for CAN 2027, with the neighbouring sides arriving after contrasting starts to their campaigns.

The Group G fixture brings together two teams from the same sub-region, with both coaches facing selection decisions before the match.

Congo

Congo midfielder Antoine Makoumbou remains a doubt after a recent physical problem disrupted the team’s preparations. Forward Jordi Mboula is also not certain to be available, with questions over both his fitness and current level of sharpness.

Those concerns leave head coach Claude Le Roy with decisions to make as he finalises his starting side for the qualifier.

Congo’s expected XI is:

Goalkeeper: Perrauld Ndinga

Defenders: Janard Mbemba, Christ Makosso, Bryan Passi, Morgan Poaty

Midfielders: Domi Jaures Massoumou, Chandrel Massanga, Fred Dembi

Forwards: Gaius Makouta, Christopher Ibayi, Geltany Stalgout Bantsiele

Cameroon

Cameroon head coach David Pagou has opted for a significant generational refresh in his squad, leaving out several established players for this international window.

The Indomitable Lions could also be without young forward Christian Kofane, who is a doubt after suffering a minor physical issue against Comoros.

Cameroon’s expected line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Blondy Nna Noukeu

Defenders: Stephane Keller, Samuel Kotto, Duplexe Tchamba

Midfielders: Saidou Alioum, Arthur Avom, David Nyengue, Mahamadou Nagida

Forwards: Bryan Mbeumo, Bil Nsongo, Danny Namaso

The match gives both sides an opportunity to strengthen their position in Group G, although the final team selections could be influenced by the fitness doubts surrounding Mboula, Makoumbou and Kofane.

Betting odds

For the CAN 2027 qualifying match, betting company 1xbet lists Congo at 10.60 to win, with a draw priced at 5.05. Cameroon are priced at 1.22 for victory.

The fixture will be played at the Stade Alphonse-Massamba-Debat in Brazzaville.