World Cup Playoffs: Cameroon Faces Players Withdrawal

World Cup Playoffs: Cameroon Faces Players Withdrawal

 Sampson Adedeji

Three days before their crucial semi-final clash against DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup playoffs, the Cameroonian national team has been hit by fresh setbacks in attack, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The first blow came with the withdrawal of Danny Namaso, who was named in coach Marc Brys’ squad. The Auxerre striker suffered a sprained left ankle during his club’s 2-0 defeat to Angers in Ligue 1 on Sunday. According to an official statement from the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) on Monday, Namaso will be sidelined for several weeks and will therefore miss the playoffs.

Adding to Brys’ woes, Christian Kofane will also not feature for the Indomitable Lions. Although Bayer Leverkusen had earlier confirmed his call-up, the young forward’s name was missing from the final list of players expected in Morocco for the team’s training camp.

The 19-year-old striker, who had been set to make his international debut after recent talks with FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o, now appears to be caught in the middle of ongoing tensions between the federation and the national team coach over the handling of player invitations.

This latest development further highlights the instability surrounding the Cameroonian setup in recent months. With injuries, administrative confusion, and internal power struggles continuing to plague the squad, Marc Brys faces the daunting task of rallying a depleted team ahead of their high-stakes encounter with DR Congo a match that could determine Cameroon’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.