AFCON Controversy: Eto’o hit with four-game ban, $20,000 fine

The President of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), Samuel Eto’o, has been suspended for four matches by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over alleged misconduct during Cameroon’s defeat to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

CAF’s disciplinary committee also imposed a $20,000 fine on the former African Footballer of the Year following its review of incidents that occurred during the quarter-final encounter.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, FECAFOOT confirmed it had received formal notification of the sanction but expressed strong reservations about the decision, insisting that CAF failed to provide a clear explanation for the punishment.

“FECAFOOT has taken note of the decision of the CAF Disciplinary Committee suspending its president and imposing a financial penalty, a decision which, however, lacks any explicit justification,” the federation said.

The Cameroonian FA further criticised the process that led to the sanction, arguing that the expedited disciplinary procedure raised concerns about fair hearing and due process.

According to FECAFOOT, “the accelerated handling of the matter raises serious questions regarding respect for the fundamental principles of a fair trial.”

CAF had earlier announced on Monday that it was investigating incidents arising from the quarter-final matches involving Cameroon vs Morocco and Algeria vs Nigeria, without detailing specific offences.

However, Eto’o’s conduct during the Cameroon-Morocco clash drew widespread attention after he was seen gesturing angrily toward Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa while seated near CAF President Patrice Motsepe in the stands.

Reaffirming its position, FECAFOOT declared its full backing for Eto’o and vowed to defend institutional integrity within African football governance.

“FECAFOOT reaffirms its unwavering support for its president and its commitment to upholding the principles of credible, transparent and fair disciplinary justice,” the statement added.

The development adds to growing tensions surrounding officiating, administration and disciplinary standards at the ongoing AFCON tournament.

Very Nigerian.

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