Yaoundé, Cameroon – Cameroonian football is in turmoil just weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in Morocco. The national team is embroiled in a situation reflecting internal discord and a lack of coherent decision-making within the country’s sporting institutions.
The saga began with the dismissal of Belgian coach Marc Brys a mere three weeks before the tournament. His replacement, David Pagou, was swiftly appointed. However, in an unprecedented move, both Brys and Pagou have announced separate squads for the competition, leaving fans and analysts bewildered.
Brys, citing his existing contract, insists he remains the legitimate coach. He claims he has not received official notification of his dismissal from the Ministry of Sports, the body legally responsible for appointing and terminating coaches. He unveiled a 28-man squad, featuring seasoned players like Vincent Aboubakar, Andre Onana, and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, believing their experience is crucial for a tournament of this magnitude.
The seeds of this crisis were sown earlier this year, following Brys’ appointment in April. He reportedly clashed with the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) and its president, Samuel Eto’o. The conflict deepened in May with the appointment of a parallel technical staff led by Martin Ntoungou Mpile, further complicating the team’s preparations.
Despite an October agreement between the Ministry and FECAFOOT to retain Brys while incorporating a local technical team, the truce proved short-lived. In December, FECAFOOT released a document outlining 11 reasons for Brys’ dismissal, ostensibly to create a calm environment before AFCON. However, with Brys still under contract until September 2026 and lacking official notification of his termination, the administrative confusion is palpable.
The situation is further complicated by accusations and counter-accusations flying between the involved parties, casting a shadow over Cameroon’s chances at the upcoming tournament. The instability raises serious questions about the team’s readiness and cohesion as they prepare to compete on the continental stage.
