Cameroon misses out on automatic World Cup spot as Cape Verde qualifies

YAOUNDE, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- Cameroon's bid for direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in frustration after a goalless draw with Angola in its final Group D match on Monday.

Needing victory in Yaounde to keep their hopes alive, the Indomitable Lions squandered several chances and were left to rue their wastefulness.

Even a win would not have been enough in the end, as Cape Verde beat Eswatini 3-0 to finish top with 23 points, sealing its first-ever World Cup berth.

Cameroon ended second on 19 points and now must wait on results from other groups to determine if it will advance to the second round of qualifying. Angola closed its campaign in fourth place with 12 points.