Congo and Cameroon prepare for Brazzaville showdown in CAN 2027 qualifying

The Congo and Cameroon meet at the Stade Alphonse-Massamba-Debat in Brazzaville on the second matchday of the CAN 2027 qualifiers, with both sides arriving after contrasting starts to their Group G campaigns.

The regional rivals are set for a competitive encounter, with Congo facing selection concerns while Cameroon have made significant changes to their squad under manager David Pagou.

Congo

Congo midfielder Antoine Makoumbou remains doubtful after suffering a recent physical problem, disrupting the team’s preparations for the match. Forward Jordi Mboula is also a fitness concern, leaving manager Claude Le Roy with decisions to make before naming his starting XI.

The hosts are expected to line up with Perrauld Ndinga in goal. Janard Mbemba, Christ Makosso, Bryan Passi and Morgan Poaty are set to form the defence.

Domi Jaures Massoumou, Chandrel Massanga and Fred Dembi are likely to operate in midfield, while Gaius Makouta, Christopher Ibayi and Geltany Stalgout Bantsiele are expected to lead the attack.

Probable Congo XI: Perrauld Ndinga; Janard Mbemba, Christ Makosso, Bryan Passi, Morgan Poaty; Domi Jaures Massoumou, Chandrel Massanga, Fred Dembi; Gaius Makouta, Christopher Ibayi, Geltany Stalgout Bantsiele.

Cameroon

Cameroon manager David Pagou has opted for a clear generational renewal during the current international gathering, leaving out several established members of the squad.

The Indomitable Lions could also be without young forward Christian Kofane, who is uncertain after picking up a minor physical problem during the match against Comoros.

Blondy Nna Noukeu is the expected goalkeeper, with Stephane Keller, Samuel Kotto and Duplexe Tchamba forming a three-man defensive unit.

Saidou Alioum, Arthur Avom, David Nyengue and Mahamadou Nagida are set to make up the midfield. Bryan Mbeumo, Bil Nsongo and Danny Namaso are the expected attacking options.

Probable Cameroon XI: Blondy Nna Noukeu; Stephane Keller, Samuel Kotto, Duplexe Tchamba; Saidou Alioum, Arthur Avom, David Nyengue, Mahamadou Nagida; Bryan Mbeumo, Bil Nsongo, Danny Namaso.

Match odds

Ahead of the second round of CAN 2027 qualifying, betting company 1xbet lists Congo at 10.60 to win, with a draw priced at 5.05. Cameroon are rated favourites at 1.22.

The match will be played at the Stade Alphonse-Massamba-Debat in Brazzaville.