Cameroon Snags Levante Star Etta Eyong for World Cup Qualifiers
Oct, 9 2025
When Karl Etta Eyong Blaise, forward of Levante UD received an official summons from the Cameroon National Team, the football world took notice. The call‑up arrived on , just in time for two decisive matches against Mauritius and Angola in the African zone of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Here’s the thing: Eyong’s decision flips the script on a lingering debate about whether he would ever put on a Spanish shirt at senior level.
Background: From Douala Roots to La Liga Spotlight
Born in Douala, Cameroon, the 23‑year‑old migrated to Spain as a teenager, enrolling in the youth ranks of Cadiz CF. After a brief stint there, he earned a move to Villarreal CF, where he made three top‑flight appearances before the summer 2025 deadline day swap to Levante. The forward’s rise has been anything but linear – a story of perseverance that mirrors many African talents who chase European dreams.
Current Form and Levante Impact
Since the season kicked off in August, Eyong has been a spark plug for the Valencia‑based side. In just seven league games – four with Levante and three during his loan spell at Villarreal – he has tallied four goals and three assists. That stat line translates to an average of a goal contribution every 65 minutes, a figure that places him at the top of Levante’s creative charts.
“He’s become our go‑to guy when we need a breakthrough,” admits Javier Pérez, Levante’s sporting director, in a post‑match briefing. “Losing him for the Africa Cup of Nations would be a blow, but his national‑team ambition is something we respect.”
Cameroon’s Call‑up and World Cup Qualifier Details
According to an announcement from the Fédération Camerounaise de Football (FECAFOOT) on October 6, Eyong will join the ‘Indomitable Lions’ from October 6 to October 14, 2025. The squad, trimmed to 24 players, will feature him in the following fixtures:
- 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifier – Cameroon vs MauritiusMauritius (Tuesday, Oct 8)
- 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifier – Cameroon vs Angola (Sunday, Oct 13, Angola)
The matchup against Mauritius will mark Eyong’s senior debut for Cameroon, as captured in a YouTube clip uploaded by the federation hours after kickoff. A win in both games would keep Cameroon on track in Group D, where they sit alongside Nigeria, Tanzania and the two opponents mentioned above.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Fans in Douala erupted on social media, flooding Twitter with the hashtag #EyongIsLion. “It feels right to wear the stripes of my country,” Eyong posted on his Instagram story, a smile barely hidden behind the national jersey.
Meanwhile, Spanish pundits expressed mixed feelings. Former La Liga striker Fernando Llorente noted, “Spain lost a promising forward, but the player’s heritage should guide his choice. Cameroon gained a true asset.”
On the administrative side, FECAFOOT’s technical director Samuel Efé emphasized the strategic angle: “Our attack needed a player comfortable with European football’s pace. Eyong fits that profile perfectly, and his inclusion signals our intent to qualify early.”
Implications for Levante and Upcoming Tournaments
Levante’s coach, Ruben de la Rosa, admitted the club could be short‑handed during the Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026. “We have to manage the squad depth,” he said. “If Eyong is called up for the tournament, we’ll rely on our young wingers to step up.”
The potential absence raises concerns for Levante’s La Liga campaign, where the club currently sits mid‑table. With only a handful of fixtures left before the winter break, losing a player responsible for 4 of the team’s 9 goals could swing their goal‑difference balance.
From Cameroon's perspective, securing Eyong early may also preempt a possible switch to Spain, a scenario that grew louder after he was left out of Spain’s September 2025 squad. By embedding him in the World Cup qualifying roster, FECAFOOT effectively locked his allegiance.
What’s Next for Eyong?
Eyong will travel to Mauritius on October 7, joining the training camp at the island’s national stadium. If he performs well, the likelihood of a call‑up for the Africa Cup of Nations rises dramatically.
In the longer term, his presence could shape Cameroon’s attacking template for the 2026 World Cup final tournament, should they advance past the African qualifiers. For Levante, the summer transfer window may bring a replacement or an internal promotion, depending on how the club evaluates his market value after an international showcase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Etta Eyong’s call‑up affect Levante’s squad depth?
Levante relies on Eyong for both goals and assists – he has contributed to four of the team’s nine league goals so far. His absence during the Africa Cup of Nations (late December to January) could force the club to promote a reserve winger or seek a short‑term loan, potentially disrupting their La Liga rhythm.
Why did Eyong choose Cameroon over Spain?
Eyong cited personal pride and a desire to honor his birthplace. After being omitted from Spain’s September 2025 squad, Cameroon’s early inclusion in the World Cup qualifiers gave him a clear pathway to senior international football, sealing his decision.
What are Cameroon’s chances in Group D of the qualifiers?
Group D is relatively balanced. With wins against Mauritius and Angola, Cameroon can secure second place, which typically guarantees a playoff spot. The addition of a European‑seasoned forward like Eyong improves their odds of early qualification.
When and where will the next match involving Eyong be played?
The next fixture is on against Mauritius in Port‑Louis. It marks his senior debut for the Indomitable Lions.
Could Eyong still switch national teams after playing for Cameroon?
FIFA rules state that once a player appears in an official competitive match – such as a World Cup qualifier – they are cap‑tied to that nation. Eyong’s appearance against Mauritius will lock his international future with Cameroon.
Virginia Balseiro
October 9, 2025 AT 02:56What a buzz seeing a Levante striker don the Indomitable Lions’ jersey! The energy in Douala this morning was palpable, fans streaming live clips and chanting his name. Etta’s decision feels like a homecoming narrative straight out of a blockbuster, and it gives the squad a fresh attacking edge right before the qualifiers. His pace and finishing that have lit up the Spanish league will translate nicely to the African stage, especially against a side like Mauritius that struggles defending low blocks. This kind of story also lifts the morale of younger Cameroonian kids dreaming of European football.