A High-Stakes Match from the CAF World Cup Qualifiers
The November international break is being used to showcase some thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. In the African region (CAF), Group D matchday 2 features an intense face-off between the national football teams of Libya and Cameroon. This clash is particularly significant as they have not met each other on the field for the past decade.
Libya has had a promising start to their qualification campaign. On matchday 1, they secured a 1-0 victory over the South African nation Eswatini. Currently, they stand at second place in Group D, trailing behind Cameroon only due to goal difference.
Cameroon, on the other hand, managed to conquer their opening-day nerves by defeating Mauritius 3-0 at home. However, they now face a challenging away test, a task that they have struggled with in their last 8 fixtures.
Kick-Off Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 21st November 2023
- Time: 4:00 PM UK (9:30 PM IST)
- Venue: Martyrs of February Stadium
Form Guide:
- Libya (in all competitions): W-D-W-D-L
- Cameroon (in all competitions): W-L-L-W-D
Players to Watch Out For:
Ahmed Mohamed Rajab Ekrawa (Libya)
Libya's national football team head coach, Milutin Sredojević, deployed Ahmed Mohamed Rajab Ekrawa as a right winger in a 3-4-3 formation in the previous game. Ekrawa not only proved to be effective but also scored the match-winning goal. It is highly likely that he will feature in the same position again, bringing his talent and determination to the forefront.
Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
Bryan Mbeumo, the star player from Brentford FC in the Premier League, has promptly filled the void left by Ivan Toney's suspension. With 6 goals and 2 assists in 12 PL games, Mbeumo has already showcased his incredible skill. In the match against Mauritius, he played the full 90 minutes and even managed to score a goal. As he prepares to face Libya, Mbeumo will undoubtedly be motivated to deliver an outstanding performance before his upcoming PL game against Arsenal on the 25th of November.
Match Facts:
- In their last 3 home games, Libya has scored just 2 goals and failed to secure a victory.
- In the last 8 away games, Cameroon has struggled, failing to claim a single win in all competitions.
- The two teams last met a decade ago, with Cameroon emerging victorious with a 1-0 scoreline.
Injury & Team News:
The home team, Libya, is fortunate in terms of injuries. They have a fully fit squad, with all selected players available to participate in this crucial clash. Head coach Milutin Sredojević doesn't even have any suspension concerns to worry about. Considering their triumph in the previous game against Eswatini, it is likely that the coach will opt for an unchanged starting lineup.
The visitors, however, have suffered a significant setback. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana was forced to leave the field at the 80-minute mark in the previous game due to a shoulder injury. Although the injury is not severe, Fabrice Ondoa is expected to start in his place. Additionally, Vincent Aboubakar remains sidelined with a thigh injury, and his return is expected in December.
Head to Head:
- Total Matches: 2
- Libya wins: 1
- Cameroon wins: 1
- Draws: 0
Predicted Lineup:
Libya predicted lineup (3-4-3):
- Al Woheshi (GK)
- Al Suwaei
- bin Amir
- Yousef
- Fakroun
- Saleh Al-Badri
- Aleiyan
- Al Dhawi
- Ekrawa
- Al Khoja
- Salama
Cameroon predicted lineup (3-4-3):
- Ondoa (GK)
- Castelletto
- Gonzalez
- Wooh
- Tchamadeu
- Neyou
- Anguissa
- Yongwa
- Mbeumo
- Pemi Moumbagna
- Toko Ekambi
Match Prediction for Libya vs Cameroon:
Despite Cameroon's setback with Andre Onana's departure due to a minor shoulder injury, the team still possesses considerable strength on the field. Head coach Rigobert Song is likely to entrust Fabrice Ondoa with the goalkeeping duties for now. Libya should be aware of Cameroon's poor record in away games, where they have failed to secure a win in their last 8 encounters. However, considering the overall strength of the away side, they are the favorites to emerge victorious.
Prediction: Libya 0-2 Cameroon
Telecast Information for Libya vs Cameroon:
- India: FIFA+
- UK: FIFA+
- US: FIFA+
- Nigeria: FIFA+
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