Marc Brys Demands Fire and Focus as Cameroon Head Into High-Stakes Playoff Against DR Congo

Cameroon’s World Cup hopes come down to one massive night in Rabat, and Marc Brys is making his message clear: leave the drama at home and bring the passion to the pitch.

It’s been a turbulent buildup for the Indomitable Lions, but the stakes could not be higher. On Thursday evening, the five-time African champions face DR Congo in a playoff that will determine who takes one step closer to the 2026 World Cup. Kick-off is set for 9pm CAT at the Al Barid Stadium, where all eyes will be on a Cameroonian squad trying to drown out the noise.

A Stormy Build-Up, But No Room for Distractions

Cameroon’s preparations have been overshadowed by ongoing tension between Brys and the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot). The Belgian coach refused to attend the squad announcement press conference in Yaounde, calling it unnecessary, and instead headed straight to Morocco to get his players focused.

For fans back home, the clash between the coach and the federation has become a frustrating subplot. On social media, some supporters have praised Brys for choosing football over politics, while others worry the distractions could spill onto the field.

But Brys insists he is unfazed. He believes his squad is experienced enough to rise above the turmoil, saying he is “100 per cent sure” they will deliver if they play with the right mentality. His recipe for success is simple: passion, enthusiasm and unity.

How The Teams Arrive in Rabat

Cameroon enter the playoff after finishing second in Group D behind Cape Verde. Their campaign had bright moments, including a convincing 2-0 win over Mauritius, but a costly 1-0 defeat to the Blue Sharks {Cape Verde) in September and a goalless draw with Angola left them chasing qualification late.

Still, they’ve won three of their last five matches, and there’s a sense that this squad has enough talent to trouble any opponent when they’re fully switched on.

DR Congo arrive with a similar story. They were edged out of Group B by Senegal, finishing just two points short of automatic qualification. A pair of 1-0 wins against Togo and Sudan kept their hopes alive despite a narrow 3-2 loss to the Lions of Teranga.

The Leopards have momentum, confidence and a hunger to reach only their second World Cup since 1974.

Players To Watch

Cameroon: Bryan Mbeumo

The Manchester United winger has been electric this season, scoring five Premier League goals and playing a vital role in Cameroon’s qualification run. With four goals and two assists in the group stage, he remains Brys’ most dangerous outlet.

DR Congo: Cedric Bakambu

At 34, Bakambu is proving age is nothing but a number. He ended the group stage on a scoring tear, netting four goals in three matches. With Yoane Wissa sidelined, DR Congo will lean heavily on his experience and form.

What’s At Stake

A win in Rabat sends the victor into the African playoff final, and from there into the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March. For both nations, Thursday’s match is not just about football; it’s about identity, pride and keeping a World Cup dream alive.

For Cameroon, it’s also a test of resilience: can the players shut out the noise and perform for their country?

For DR Congo, it’s a chance to restore past glory and prove they’re ready for the world stage again.

Who Will come Out on Top?

If there’s one thing African football fans can agree on, it’s that these playoff nights produce emotional, unpredictable theatre. And with the drama surrounding Cameroon, the resurgence of DR Congo and the weight of World Cup dreams on the line, Rabat is about to host another chapter of pure football intensity.

All Brys wants from his players is passion. On Thursday night, millions back home will be expecting exactly the same.