The tension is real as Cameroon and DR Congo lock horns in the CAF World Cup playoff semi-final this Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the Al-Barid Stadium in Morocco. For both teams, this isn’t just another qualifier; it’s a do-or-die fight for a ticket to the final, where the winner will face either Nigeria or Gabon. The ultimate prize? A spot in the inter-confederation playoffs next March and a shot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cameroon, who Softfootball understands are eight-time World Cup participants, are desperate to keep their proud record alive, while DR Congo are dreaming big, chasing their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Team News
The Indomitable Lions have received a timely boost with Yvan Neyou, Jean Onana, Enzo Boyomo, and Darlin Yongwa all returning to the fold. Andre Onana is expected to start between the sticks, while Bryan Mbeumo, who was the hero when Cameroon defeated Mauritius 2-nil, remains their biggest attacking threat, fresh off a strong run of form for club and country.
They also released video footage of the teams training via the Federation’s official X account.
Watch the video below:
For DR Congo, it’s a more worrying picture. Several key names, Yoane Wissa, Dimitri Bertaud, Dylan Batubinsika, Grady Diangana, Jackson Muleka, and Afimico Pululu, are all out through injury. Still, the experience of Cédric Bakambu, their top scorer with four goals, gives them some hope up front.
Possible Lineups
Cameroon (4-3-3): A Onana; Tchatchoua, Castelletto, Nouhou, Nagida; Avom, Baleba, Anguissa; Nkoudou, Eyong, Mbeumo
DR Congo (4-4-2): Mpasi; Masuaku, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Wan-Bissaka; Mbuku, Moutoussamy, Mukau, Kayembe; Essende, Bakambu
Softfootball Prediction
Cameroon hasn’t lost to DR Congo in 9 consecutive meetings (W6, D3), a stat that tells its own story. While the Congolese had the better qualifying run (22 points to Cameroon’s 19), the Indomitable Lions’ pedigree and experience on the big stage could make the difference.
Expect a gritty contest, maybe a few nervy moments, but Cameroon might just have enough firepower and control to edge it.
Prediction: Cameroon 2–1 DR Congo
