Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
This is a pivotal fixture for the hosts in the race for top spot in the group. They have 12 points, just one fewer than leaders Cabo Verde. The visitors have already lost their tournament motivation, with only two points from six matches and bottom place in the group. However, such encounters often prove awkward for favourites.
Cameroon
Cameroon have maintained a high level in qualifying. In six games they have scored 12 goals, the best tally in the group, while conceding only four. In their recent four matches: a 0:0 draw with Eswatini, a 3:1 win over Libya, then friendlies featuring a 3:0 victory against Uganda and a 1:1 draw with Equatorial Guinea. Cameroon rely on a compact defence and quick transitions. It is worth noting that the team did not score in the last two head-to-head meetings with Eswatini, although they once beat this opponent 5:0 at home.
Eswatini
Eswatini have already lost all chance of reaching the play-offs, but they picked up their first points in the last rounds — a 0:0 draw with Cameroon and a 3:3 draw with Mauritius. In July the team took part in the COSAFA Cup: a 1:1 draw with Madagascar and a 1:2 defeat to Tanzania. Consequently, the winless run stands at four matches.
Cameroon vs Eswatini Prediction
The gulf in quality is clear, but Cameroon should not expect a stroll. The visitors can defend in numbers and have recently contained the favourites’ attacks in head-to-head meetings. At the same time the hosts’ motivation is higher, as the push for an automatic FIFA World Cup spot demands maximum concentration. The prudent play is to avoid chasing a rout and keep things controlled.
