Praia, Cape Verde — Cameroon’s 13-match unbeaten streak under Marc Brys came to a halt on Tuesday after a 1-0 defeat to Cape Verde, a result that leaves the Indomitable Lions’ 2026 World Cup dreams hanging by a thread.

The hosts, roared on by a raucous home crowd, struck decisively in the second half to move four points clear of Cameroon at the top of Group D. With only two fixtures remaining, Cape Verde are now within touching distance of their first-ever World Cup finals appearance, while Cameroon face the prospect of missing out for the first time since 2018.

Speaking post-match, Brys admitted his side had been second best at key moments.

“They played with great determination and worked for each other,” he said. “At some point, unfortunately, doubt crept into our side. I can’t explain why, but it was there. We improved in the second half and created some opportunities, but in the end we were punished. That’s football.”

He credited Cape Verde for capitalising on their strong spell — something his side failed to do.

While refusing to comment on off-field tensions with Fecafoot — including the absence of his assistant Joachim Mununga — Brys’ team selection raised eyebrows. His omission of young prospects Christian Kofane and Karl Etta Ayong has drawn criticism, while earlier dropped points against Eswatini now loom large.

Supporters and pundits alike have questioned whether Brys’ cautious approach is costing the Lions their edge.

The defeat leaves Cameroon four points adrift of Cape Verde with just two matches to play. To secure direct qualification, they must win both games and hope the Blue Sharks stumble against Libya or Eswatini. Otherwise, Cameroon will be left chasing one of the limited runner-up spots.

For Brys, the loss represents more than just an end to his unbeaten record. It adds to the scrutiny over his tactics and reluctance to fully unleash the nation’s emerging talent.

“The objective hasn’t changed — we must keep fighting,” Brys insisted. But with their fate no longer in their hands, Cameroon’s path to a ninth World Cup finals is looking steeper by the day.