By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Cameroon’s national football team, the Indomitable Lions, are gearing up for two crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, and head coach Marc Brys is prioritizing thorough preparation. Speaking in Yaoundé on August 29 while announcing his 26-player squad, Brys stressed the importance of solidifying the team’s position while also integrating new talent.
During the press conference, Brys highlighted the dual objective for the upcoming games against Eswatini and Cape Verde. “We are fortunate to have a very competitive squad,” he stated. “Our priority is to prepare as best we can for the upcoming encounters. On the one hand, we must confirm our qualification for the World Cup. On the other, we must strengthen and consolidate the squad. It’s about finding the right balance between continuity, cohesion, and openness to new talents.”
The Indomitable Lions will first host Eswatini in Yaoundé on September 4, before traveling to Praia to face Cape Verde on September 9. These matches are the seventh and eighth fixtures of the qualifying campaign.
The coach addressed the notable absences of several players, including Jean Onana, Fai Collins, and Christian Fofane, providing specific reasons for each decision. Regarding Jean Onana, Brys explained, “His situation at the club is not ideal. So we’re giving him time to get back into the swing of things. But he remains in our minds. He provides a credible and interesting alternative in midfield.”
While acknowledging the talent of Darlin Yongwa, Brys justified his omission by citing the intense competition for places. “He’s an interesting player. But competition requires choices. As I often say, to choose is to renounce. These decisions are always difficult. But they’re part of being a coach…Having this kind of competition is a blessing. It’s a sign that Cameroon is competitive.”
The squad announcement was marked by the return of veteran striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting after a one-year absence. The 36-year-old has been in fine form for his club, New York RB, scoring 16 goals and providing two assists in 27 MLS matches. His inclusion adds significant experience to the forward line.
The rest of the squad features a mix of established stars and promising new faces. Goalkeepers include André Onana and Simon Ngapanduentbu. In defense, Enzo Boyomo, who has started the season well with Osasuna, earned a call-up.
The midfield is anchored by familiar names like Zambo Anguissa, Martin Hongla, and Carlos Baleba, with Arthur Avom also making the list. Surprisingly, striker Vincent Aboubakar was also called up despite not currently being affiliated with a club.
