The Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, has sent a message of support to the U17 Indomitable Lions after their qualification for the quarter-finals of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. This qualification comes after a group stage played in Morocco, marked by a steady progression of the Cameroonian team.
After an initial defeat against Côte d'Ivoire (2-0), the team coached by Alioum Saidou managed to recover by winning their subsequent matches against Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, both times with a score of 1-0. These victories allowed the young Lions not only to reach the second round of the U17 AFCON, but also to secure their participation in the U17 World Cup to be held in Qatar.
"Encouragement to the U17 Indomitable Lions, who after two consecutive victories against Uganda and DR Congo, qualify for the second round of the AFCON in their category currently taking place in Morocco, and thus validate their ticket for the U17 World Cup Qatar 2026," said Pr. Mouelle Kombi in his message.
The Africa U-17 Cup of Nations is taking place in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, 2026. Morocco, the host country, is also the defending champion. The FIFA U17 World Cup 2026 will be held in Qatar from November 19 to December 13, 2026. This edition will mark the second of an annual cycle adopted by FIFA for this tournament, and the second to be played with an expanded format to 48 teams.
This qualification offers Cameroon the opportunity to shine again on the continental and world stage in this age category. The draw for both competitions will take place on May 21 at FIFA headquarters in Zurich.
