In 2017, Cameroonian football went into a crisis that turned out to be a disguised blessing. As the country prepared for that year's African Cup of Nations finals, eight senior players declined call ups, opting to stay with their clubs at the height of disagreement with the federation. 

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It came to be a key turning point for Cameroon, as they not only went on to win the AFCON title, then hosted by Gabon, the competition also brought out some of the best previously untested players. It was a big one for Cameroon, the boss then Hugo Broos and these players as they became national team mainstays. 

Most of these players went on to play at the 2019 and 2021 finals and while they have done well so far, it is time for the federation to start checking out new players, to keep the national team conveyor belt running. 

So, who are some of the young players that this top African nation should start looking at with the possibility to woo for future call ups, or even as plans get underway for the final round of qualifiers to the 2022 World Cup? 

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Hugo Ekitike: 

Reims forward Hugo Ekitike is definitely a player to watch and it is no wonder he attracted interest from Newcastle United in January, as well as a reported approach from Borussia Dortmund. At 19 years old, he is Reims' leading scorer in the French Ligue 1 this season and he is eligible for Cameroon despite having been called up by France U21 earlier. 

With a few red cards this season, Hugo is definitely a rough diamond that needs attention but sticking to his performance, most SportyTrader tips on betting will surely back him to get on the score sheet more likely than his teammates. He stands out as a player Cameroon should monitor, given his roots to the Central African nation. 

Youssoufa Moukoko:

Another top prospect that should be on the Cameroon FA's radar right now is Borussia Dortmund's Youssoufa Moukoko. At 17 years old, Moukoko has already featured for the Dortmund senior team, scoring four goals. He is also capped for the Germany U21 team and has three goals in two matches. Born in Yaounde, this is a player that can feature for Cameroon in future. 

Anthony Elanga:

 Born in Yaounde, Elanga left Cameroon for Europe in 1998 and seems to have found a home in Sweden, where he is capped for the U21 and U17 teams, scoring a combined eight goals. He has recently done well at Manchester United and is getting more and more game time. The 19-year old has two goals in nine league matches. 

Bryan Mbeumo: 

Brentford forward Mbeumo hasn't enjoyed a lot of success in the Premier League as he did in the Championship with Brentford but he is clearly a talent Cameroon can do within the future. The 22-year-old has played five times for France's U20 and U21 national teams but scored no goal. At his age, he may struggle to break through the French senior team and maybe it is time he rethinks his international career. He is eligible for Cameroon. 

In the sphere of international football, legacy is not built on sentiment but on unmatched achivement. What truly counts for a national team are the trophies won at the global stage, leaving everyone behind in the race!

This list will provide you an overview of the football teams with most international trophies. Read the full article to know about their dominance in the world of football.

1. Argentina (23 international trophies)

Argentina stands as the titan in international football, having 23 trophies in their cabinet, with a rich legacy shaped by raw talent and passionate play.

Their identity is deeply rooted in the genius of legendary players such as Diego Maradona, whose individual brilliance almost single-handedly sealed the 1986 World Cup, and Lionel Messi, who finally cemented his legacy in 2022 World Cup after years of carrying the team's hope.

These players, along with Alfredo Di Stefano and Gabriel Batistuta have contributed to their style of play.

International trophy cabinet of Argentina:

Read Also: Trophies won by Argentina in International Football (Men's)

2. Brazil (20 international trophies)

One of the greatest footballing nations, Brazil, holds 20 international trophies in their stunning cabinet. They are widely recognised as a nation that produce players who redefine the sport.

Legendary figures like Pele, Garrincha, and modern maestros like Ronaldinho and Romario, have all contributed to Brazil's success in achieving this milestone. Their contributions have not been just about winning, but about entertaining and inspiring.

International trophy cabinet of Brazil:

3. Uruguay (19 international trophies)

Uruguay possesses a truly remarkable legacy in international football, regardless of its small population. They are just one trophy away to reach enter the twenties in their international trophies count, with 19 so far.

Legendary players like Obdulio Varela and Alcides Ghiggia, who had immense contribution in 1950 World Cup win, and more recently, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, have all profoundly shaped Uruguay's rich footballing narrative.

International trophy cabinet of Uruguay:

4. Mexico (14 international trophies)

Mexico holds a proud legacy as the dominant force in CONCACAF football, known for their passionate fan base, technical prowess, and ability to frequently challenge stronger nations.

Hugo Sanchez, Rafael Marquez, and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, are some names served in achieving the 14 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of Mexico:

Read Also: 11 players who have won the most trophies in football history

5. USA (9 international trophies)

The USA has steadily built a legacy of growing competitiveness and professionalism, establishing itself as a successful team within the CONCACAF region.

Players like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard, have elevated the team's standing and inspired a new generation of American footballers. They currently hold the 5th place with 10 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of the USA:

6. France (8 international trophies)

France holds the sixth place with 8 international trophies achivement elegantly with the efforts of world-class players and athletic brilliance. From Michel Platini of the 1980s to Kylian Mbappe, an explosive forward who's carrying the winning legacy in recent years, this team have come a long way.

Their contributions have led to some historic victories that shaped French football.

International trophy cabinet of France

Read Also: Football facts: Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever

7. Germany (8 international trophies)

Germany's legacy in international football is built on resilience, discipline and strong winning mentality. They have won 8 international trophies which gracefully shine in their cabinet.

Legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer, the elegant "Der Kaiser" who revolutionized the sweeper role; Gerd Muller, the prolific striker; and Lothar Matthaus, a midfield powerhouse, have shaped the team's consistent success.

International trophy cabinet of Germany:

8. Egypt (7 international trophies)

Egypt holds an unparalleled legacy as the most successful nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, having great consistency and dominance on the continental stage.

The "Pharaohs" are known for their tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial matches, which brought them 7 international trophies.

The most memorable victory for Egypt was their achievement of winning three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010, a feat that cemented their status as the kings of African football.

International trophy cabinet of Egypt:

9. Spain (6 international trophies)

Spain's legacy in international football is linked to their "tiki-taka" style, a philosophy of possession-based, intricate passing football that brought unparallaled success.

This approach led to an era of consistent dominance, including a historic treble from 2008 to 2012. Legendary figures like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Iker Casillas were instrumental in this golden age.

Recently, the new generation talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, has emerged, further contributing to add up the numbers of their international trophies, which currently counts to 6.

International trophy cabinet of Spain:

Read Also: Football Wonderkids: Is Lamine Yamal the best 17-year-old footballer ever?

10. Italy (6 international trophies)

Italy won 6 international trophies in their football journey, with four World Cup wins among them. They have the capability to rise when it matters most for the nation.

Legendary players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, and others have left an incredible mark on the history of team's success. The 2006 FIFA World Cup remains a memorable victory where the Azzurri peaked.

International trophy cabinet of Italy:

11. New Zealand (6 international trophies)

New Zealand won 6 international trophies and all of them were OFC Nations Cup wins, reflecting their dominance within the Oceania confederation. Their strong team spirit and discipline gets them the ability to qualify for the World Cup despite being a smaller footballing nation.

Their qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they remained undefeated in the group stage, drawing all 3 of their matches against strong opponents, stands as a particularly memorable achievement.

International trophy cabinet of New Zealand:

12. Cameroon (5 international trophies)

Cameroon, known as the "Indomitable Lions," has forged a legacy as one of Africa's most successful footballing nations. They have achieved 5 international trophies so far, and are in own by their raw power, athleticism, and a fearless, adventurous approach to the game.

The 1990 FIFA World Cup remains their most memorable victory, where they shocked reigning champions Argentina in the opening match and became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, with their commendable performances.

International trophy cabinet of Cameroon:

Read Also: The most shocking goal misses in Football history

13. Australia (5 international trophies)

Australia, also known as "Socceroos," have evolved from a dominant force in Oceania to a competitive presence in Asia and a consistent participant on the global stage of football.

They have won 5 international trophies so far, with players like Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka being the central to their footballing journey.

A standout memorable victory for Australia was winning the AFC Asian Cup on home soil in 2015, that increased their status as a leading footballing nation within the Asian confederation.

International trophy cabinet of Australia:

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to be the biggest with a record 48 teams, is just one year away. After the huge success of FIFA World Cup 2022, where the world saw an outstanding final between winners Argentina and runners-up France, the next edition is gearing up to break more records. 

But, even though the number of countries participating in the World Cup would increase, there is a chance that a few well-known footballing nations might miss the flight to the FIFA World Cup 2026, in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Today, we will talk about those countries which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

7. Austria

Austria under Ralf Rangnick surprised everyone with their high pressing game, beating teams like the Netherlands and Poland in Euro 2024. However, their high-pressing game might not give them great results in the USA. Moreover, their Bundesliga talents are also above their peak age. 

Austria have not started their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign at the moment, and Bosnia-Herzegovina have already taken a 6-point lead in the Group H points table. So, it might be tough for them if they make any silly mistakes during the qualifiers. 

6. Croatia

Although Luka Modric and company surprised everyone with a runners-up finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a third-place finish in 2022, the former Real Madrid great would be 40 during the World Cup. So, we can not expect Modric to take his team over the line alone. 

Although they have a defender like Josko Gvardiol, the entire squad is getting aged, and they are already six points behind teams like the Czech Republic and Montenegro, even before starting their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign.

So, they also have very little room for any mistakes. 

5. Chile

Chile were once considered one of the toughest South American teams with Copa America victories in 2015 and 2016. But those times are gone now for them. 

They still depend on veteran stars like Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, who are at the fag end of their careers. With just two wins in 14 South American qualifiers and a paltry nine goals scored, Chile are currently bottom of the points table. 

With Chile being five points adrift of a play-off spot, they might not make it to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

4. Qatar

The 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts created history by losing all three group games, becoming the first host nation to do so. However, after back-to-back Asian Cup victories, they were well on track to qualify for the 2026 World Cup on merit.

But, after winning only three of the eight third-round Asian qualifiers matches, they are now behind Iran and Uzbekistan in the group. 

Although there is a fourth round of safety for them, it is not guaranteed that they will qualify from there.  

3. Senegal

Senegal, the African football giants, struggled a bit after the departure of coach Aliou Cisse. They had shown great determination during the FIFA World Cup 2022, but after Cisse's departure, they seem to be fading. 

Their senior stars, Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, now play in the Saudi Pro League and are not at their prime as well. It will be up to their youngsters, like Pape Sarr and Nicolas Jackson, to take them home.

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But they are now behind DR Congo by a point in qualifying. So, any mistake from them could sweep away the dreams of the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

2. Cameroon

Cameroon are Africa's most frequent World Cup participants and has always brought a great flair to the World Cups. But, despite having talents like Andre Onana and Bryan Mbeumo, they have dropped points against Libya, Angola, and Eswatini.

They are currently one point behind Cape Verde in the Group D points table of CAF qualifiers. 

1. Nigeria

It would be a shame if a team with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface as their attacking trio does not qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, despite having a good side, they have underperformed and won only six matches, trailing South Africa by six points in Group C.

The history of the World Cup cannot be complete without mentioning Brazil with 5 trophies to their name the highest of any country they face a tough test when they travel to Chile in what is a must-win match for them. Questions have arisen as to how possible it would be for them to win the match without some key players who have been integral to the team.

Read Also: Venezuela vs Argentina FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Where and how to watch in India? Full Streaming Details

Brazil's Full Injury List

After losing four of their last five World Cup qualifiers, the five-time champions find themselves struggling with a string of poor performances. They currently sit in fifth place with 10 points, just ahead of Venezuela on goal difference. With only the top six teams guaranteed spots in the 2026 World Cup, their qualification is far from secure.

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Brazil's coach Dorival had to make five changes to his squad for the upcoming match against Chile on Thursday. This was due to injuries suffered by key players: goalkeeper Alisson, defenders Bremer, Éder Militão, Guilherme Arana, and forward Vinicius Jr.

Read Also: Football facts: Brazil fails without Neymar! These stats prove that (sportzpoint.com)

How Well Can Brazil Cope With The Injuries to Key Players

Brazil will need to rely on their squad depth to cope without their injured players. In goal, Ederson from Manchester City will likely step up, bringing vast experience and quality. In defence, Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos are capable replacements, offering solidity.  Rodrygo and Raphinha will be key in the absence of Vinicius Jr. Brazil’s squad still boasts enough quality, creativity, and versatility to remain competitive. 

Argentina National Football Team will face the challenge of Venezuela in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match on 11th October 2024 at 2:30 AM IST at the Estadio Monumental de Maturín Stadium in Venezuela.

Lionel Messi is back with the Argentina squad after recovering from his ankle injury that he suffered during the 2024 Copa America Final against Colombia. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez will be left out of the squad as he will serve a two-match ban imposed on him by the FIFA disciplinary committee.

Nico Gonzalez, Paulo Dybala, Cristian Romero, and Alejandro Garnacho; all will miss the match against Venezuela on 11th October due to health issues or injury concerns.

Argentina Coach Lionel Scaloni stated in the press conference:

"We must take advantage of the players who are in Argentine football, bringing in out-of-date European footballers today seems impossible to us."

"The team will always come forward. We have a great squad, but we always prefer to have everyone available to choose from based on what we call up. This time we have had a series of problems."

"Venezuela is a very good rival, physically and football-wise. It is a rival to be reckoned with, respected, and we will approach the match as it deserves."

Streaming Details

The Venezuela vs Argentina in the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match will not be available for telecast in India.

Football fans can watch the live streaming of the match on the Fancode app and website.

Head-to-head stats for Argentina vs Venezuela

Matches Played: 14

Argentina won: 10

Venezuela won: 2

Draw: 2

Match Details 

Match: Argentina vs Venezuela

Date:  11 October 2024

Time: 2:30 AM IST

Venue: Estadio Monumental de Maturín, Venezuela

The Blue Tigers are all set to face Kuwait in the World Cup Qualifier match on 6th June Thursday at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The captain and legend of the Indian Football Team, Sunil Chhetri will feature for the last time in International football as he announced his retirement last month. India are second in the Group A points table with 4 points while Kuwait are at the bottom with 3 points from 4 games. A victory is very crucial for both sides so it is going to be an epic clash at Kolkata.

The Indian fans will hope to see their side win not just for them but for Sunil Chhetri. From possible starting XIs to Fantasy predictions, here is everything you need to know about the India vs Kuwait match in the World Cup Qualifiers.

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Match Details

• Match: India vs Kuwait - World Cup Qualifiers

• Date: 6/6/2024

• Time: 7:00 pm

• Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata

How to watch the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers match?

The Live streaming of the match between India and Kuwait will be on Jio Cinema. The IND vs KUW football match will also be telecast live on the Sports 18 1, Sports 18 1 HD, and Sports 18 3 TV channels in India.

India vs Kuwait: Head-to-Head stats

India have a 3-2 advantage in the head-to-head football record against Kuwait in six matches. One has ended in a draw. Kuwait's last victory against India came in 2010.

• Matches Played: 6
• India won: 3
• Kuwait won: 2
• Draw: 1

Team News

Mehtab Singh left the squad for personal reasons but has rejoined them. Kuwait also have a fully fit 26-man squad for their trip to the Salt Lake Stadium.

India:

Sunil Chhetri will feature in his final match in a Blue Tigers shirt against Kuwait. It will be his 151st appearance for India. Chhetri will be determined to go out on a high. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu is set to start in goal for India. Poojary will most likely start at the right as he provides much-needed speed and energy. Poojary’s defensive duties highlight his value as a defensive asset. With Sandesh Jhingan out of the squad, Anwar Ali comes. His distribution and clean tackles will be essential for India.

Rising to the challenge! 🔥🇮🇳#ThankYouSC11 #FIFAWorldCup 🏆 #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/DDbbPSROXu

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 4, 2024

Jay Gupta had a very good season for the Gaurs. He is very good defensively but gives equal effort in attack. Subhasish Bose will have a huge responsibility on his shoulders in the absence of Jhingan. He is an experienced defender and can lead the backline. Alongside Anirudh Thapa, Jeakson Singh is expected to take back his place in the midfield. The box-to-box midfielder, Anirudh Thapa will have to drop a good performance against Kuwait.

Defending the 🔵 crest with every stride! 🇮🇳#ThankYouSC11 #FIFAWorldCup 🏆 #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/pa2RDoaE2G

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 5, 2024

Brandon Fernandes was sensational for the Gaurs in the ISL 2023-24 season. He continued to work his magic with FC Goa and scored some stunners. His passing and long-range shots can cause problems for Kuwait on Thursday. Lallianzuala Chhangte is an important player for Igor and he also had a superb ISL season. East Bengal winger Naorem Mahesh will be also there with Chhangte to help the skipper in the front.

Brandon Fernandes keen to showcase his experience in the crucial tie against Kuwait #ThankYouSC11 #FIFAWorldCup 🏆 #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 4, 2024

"I'm trying hard not to think about the game emotionally. It's not about me. I would love to win 1-0, I don't care who scores. The last 15 days have been good. I think we're on the same page regarding fitness and that's a good headache for the coach to have," said Chhetri in the pre-match press conference.

Igor Stimac is under immense pressure to deliver India’s first win in 2024. The Blue Tigers had a poor AFC Asian Cup campaign and they also failed to defeat Afghanistan in their last two qualifiers games. The Blue Tigers can’t afford to lose any more if they want to get past the second round of qualifying and keep their 2026 World Cup dreams alive. A win can bring confidence back into the squad and help them gain some much-needed momentum. Another draw or loss will mount more pressure on Stimac’s job.

"We had three tight, tough games against Kuwait. Either team could've won them. I would say our best game was away in Kuwait in these qualifiers because that was perfect defensive shape, not allowing them to get near our box and create clear chances. That's what we need to repeat tomorrow, with our discipline, focus, tight marking, reaching the opposition goal, and scoring the goal because that's what we need."

"The boys have worked tremendously hard on details and everything that is needed for this game. We're going to be ready for each scenario that awaits us," Igor Stimac said in the pre-match press conference.

Read Also: India gets two spots in AFC Champions League 2 2024/25

Kuwait:

The Kuwait team got less time to prepare for the match which is a disadvantage for their side when they take on the Indian team. But Kuwait’s coach was quite confident about his players. 

"We played three games against India last year. They were all very balanced and the teams were at a similar level. But all those matches are history. Football is always an ongoing process, and we are proud and confident of ourselves. We are more prepared now to face India and expect ourselves to be better than before and win the game," said Rui Bento in the pre-match press conference.

"Kuwait in the past has been into the final stage of the World Cup. It was a good achievement for football in Asia. But you know, football is always a challenging sport and the amount of competition that has risen in the last few years is also commendable," Bento added.

Possible Starting Lineups:

India:

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK); Nikhil Poojary, Subhasish Bose, Anwar Ali, Jay Gupta; Jeakson Singh, Anirudh Thapa; Naorem Mahesh Singh, Brandon Fernandes, Lallianzuala Chhangte; Sunil Chhetri

Kuwait:

Sulaiman Abdulghafour (GK); Rashed Al-Dosary, Khalid El Ebrahim, Hassan Al-Enezi, Salman Bormeya; Eid Al-Rasheedi; Hamad Al-Harbi, Faisal Zayed, Azbi Shehab, Mohammad Daham; Yousef Nasser

India vs Kuwait: Fantasy XI Prediction