Eswatini and Cameroon meet on March 19, 2025, 17:00 CAT in a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 CAF qualifier at Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa.
This is a crucial match for both sides, as Cameroon would like to consolidate themselves as leaders at the top of Group D, while Eswatini would seek their first qualification point.
Match Overview
Cameroon, also called the Indomitable Lions, have a rich history in African football with a record eight World Cup participations. They top Group D on eight points from four games, two wins and two draws. Their performance has been characterized by a solid defensive record, letting in three goals and scoring nine.
On the other hand, Eswatini, as they were known then, have not done much in the qualifiers. They are placed at the bottom of the group after losing all their four games. They scored only once while conceding six goals. Despite these odds, Eswatini will be eager to use their underdog role and target an upset over the group leaders.
Head-to-Head Statistics
The past records between these two teams are overwhelmingly in Cameroon's favor. Of their last four encounters, Cameroon have won twice while the remaining two matches were draws. Eswatini are still waiting for a win against Cameroon. The goal tally is nine in Cameroon's favor and one for Eswatini, highlighting the former's dominance in this encounter.
Recent Form
Cameroon:
- Nov 19, 2024: Cameroon 2 – 1 Zimbabwe
- Nov 13, 2024: Namibia 0 – 0 Cameroon
- Jun 11, 2024: Angola 1 – 1 Cameroon
- Jun 8, 2024: Cameroon 4 – 1 Cape Verde Islands
- Jan 27, 2024: Nigeria 2 – 0 Cameroon
Eswatini:
- Nov 19, 2024: Eswatini 0 – 2 Libya
- Nov 13, 2024: Gabon 3 – 1 Eswatini
- Jun 11, 2024: Angola 1 – 0 Eswatini
- Jun 8, 2024: Namibia 2 – 0 Eswatini
- Mar 27, 2024: Botswana 2 – 1 Eswatini
Cameroon's recent form shows a well-performing team, with convincing victories and a resilient defense. Eswatini, on the other hand, have seen a sequence of defeats, unable to perform both offensively and defensively.
Team News and Projected Lineups
Cameroon:
Under the leadership of coach Rigobert Song, Cameroon will play with a solid lineup. Key players are:
- Goalkeeper: André Onana
- Defenders: Collins Fai, Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Jean-Charles Castelletto, Nouhou Tolo
- Midfielders: André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Pierre Kunde, Samuel Oum Gouet
- Forwards: Karl Toko Ekambi, Vincent Aboubakar, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting
Vincent Aboubakar, the team captain, has been instrumental in their campaign for qualification, giving them crucial goals and inspiration on the pitch.
Eswatini:
Eswatini's coach, Dominic Kunene, has the responsibility to pump up his team against a solid team. The anticipated line-up is:
- Goalkeeper: Sandanezwe Mathabela
- Defenders: Sifiso Mabila, Lindo Mkhonta, Felix Badenhorst, Siyabonga Mdluli
- Midfielders: Njabulo Ndlovu, Banele Sikhondze, Khethokuhle Mkhontfo
- Forwards: Sabelo Ndzinisa, Sandile Gamedze, Fanelo Mamba
Eswatini will rely on the guile of players like Felix Badenhorst to provide solidity and creativity in midfield.
Match Prediction
With the alternative shape and past success, Cameroon are favorites to win this match. Their formidable defense and formidable attack will present a lot of difficulties for Eswatini. Bookmakers suggest a stake in Cameroon to win at half-time and full-time, on account of their caliber and poor show by Eswatini during the qualifiers.
Live Score and Updates
For real-time updates and live score, websites like Sofascore and Flashscore offer detailed coverage. The websites offer minute-by-minute commentary, statistics, and live photographs to update the fans in real time during the game.
Weather Conditions
The weather at Mbombela on match day will be mostly cloudy with temperatures between 20°C (69°F). There may be thundershowers in places that may influence pitch conditions and consequently the style of play.
Conclusion
The Eswatini vs. Cameroon match promises to be an interesting encounter, with Cameroon hoping to solidify their place in Group D and Eswatini hoping to record a breakout game. While Cameroon has the advantage on paper, football is a mercurial sport, and Eswatini will be hoping to make history by recording an upset.