This early arrival is more than a simple logistical choice, its a shift in mentality. In recent years, the Lions had developed a reputation for late arrivals, sometimes stepping off the plane with barely enough time to settle before heading straight to the pitch. This time, however, the script is different. Landing in Praia on September 5th, theyve given themselves ample days to acclimatize, train, and build the right atmosphere within camp.
The team travels with renewed confidence after their emphatic 3-0 victory over Eswatini in Yaound. That win not only gave goalkeeper Andr Onana a clean sheet and the Lions a valuable three points, but also served as the perfect send-off. A packed Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium roared them on to glory, providing energy and belief that the players now carry into this decisive battle on September 9th against the group leaders.
There was also good news from the camp as defender Christopher Wooh joined the group to complete the squad list. The center-back arrived slightly later than his teammates, having been in Moscow finalizing his transfer from French club Rennes to Russian giants Spartak Moscow. His presence now strengthens the defensive line as Cameroon prepares for this crucial showdown.
Midfielder Carlos Baleba is also available for selection again after missing the last game against Eswatini in Yaound. Suspended for accumulated yellow cards, the Brighton Hove Albion man is now back in contention, bringing fresh energy and creativity to Rigobert Songs midfield options.
And the stakes could not be higher. Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers is boiling over with tension. Cape Verde currently sits top with 16 points, just one ahead of Cameroons 15. Libya follows closely on 11, still keeping their qualification hopes alive. With only three matchdays left, September 9ths showdown between Cape Verde and Cameroon carries the weight of a final.
The victor is expected to take a decisive step toward sealing qualification for the World Cup. Cameroon, five-time African champions and a nation with a proud history on the global stage, knows this is not just another away game, it is potentially the defining moment of their qualifying campaign.
By arriving early, the Indomitable Lions are not only preparing physically and tactically, but also sending a strong psychological message to their rivals: they are ready, focused, and unwilling to leave anything to chance. Praia is now the stage, and all of Africa will be watching as two giants battle for a ticket to North America.