2026 WCQ: Mbeumo and Aboubakar combine forces as Cameroon bounce back with home win

Cameroon responded with force to a disappointing result earlier in the international break, dispatching Libya 3-1 on Tuesday in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match played in Yaoundé.

Captain Vincent Aboubakar scored twice while Bryan Mbeumo provided a goal and an assist for the Indomitable Lions, who move to within a point of Group D leaders Cape Verde with the result. A dominant first half saw the hosts open the scoring in the 27th minute when Aboubakar won a penalty kick and then converted from the spot.

After halftime, It was then Mbeumo's turn to show his high level of quality early in the second half. Carlos Baleba's pass from the midfield found the Brentford star on the right wing where he ran at the defense and cut inside to fire in an excellent low finish with his left foot.

Eight minutes later it was Aboubakar who put the Indomitable Lions beyond reach of their North African opponents. Mbeumo once again created trouble for the Libyan defense on the right wing with his superb dribbling before crossing low to Aboubakar who calmly finished with the side of his foot.

Libya found a late goal just before second half stoppage time for a consolation and a reminder that it was far from a perfect week for the Cameroonian team. Cameroon provided a convincing performance but their 0-0 draw earlier in the window against last placed Eswatini has removed the Lions as group leaders for now.

Group D Table (6 matches played)

• The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.