AFCON 2025: CAF Bans Samuel Eto’o, Fines Him $20,000

The president of the Cameroonian Football Federation, Samuel Eto’o, has been suspended for four matches and fined $20,000 following incidents linked to Cameroon’s quarter-final loss to Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Cameroon’s federation, FECAFOOT, confirmed on Wednesday that it had received the ruling from the disciplinary committee of CAF. While acknowledging the sanction, the federation questioned the basis of the decision.

“FECAFOOT further notes that the expedited procedure leading to this decision raises serious concerns regarding the fundamental requirements of a fair trial,” the statement read. The federation also said the ruling “lacks any explicit justification”.

The disciplinary action stems from events after Cameroon’s 2-0 defeat to Morocco during the AFCON quarter-finals. CAF had earlier announced it was investigating match incidents from the Cameroon versus Morocco tie, as well as the Algeria against Nigeria encounter, without initially pointing to specific offences.

However, attention quickly turned to Eto’o’s conduct in the stands. The former Cameroon captain was seen reacting angrily to a contentious moment involving forward Bryan Mbeumo.

Television footage showed Eto’o gesturing from the official tribune towards Moroccan federation president Fouzi Lekjaa, with CAF president Patrice Motsepe seated nearby.

The four-match ban means Eto’o will be barred from attending Cameroon’s next official fixtures in CAF competitions. The fine slapped on the former Barcelona forward is equivalent to about 11 million CFA francs.

Reacting from Yaoundé, FECAFOOT reiterated its backing for its president. “FECAFOOT reaffirms its unwavering support for its president and its commitment to upholding the principles governing credible disciplinary justice,” the federation said, adding that legal means would be explored within the prescribed timelines.

The episode adds to a growing list of disciplinary issues involving Eto’o. In September 2024, the FIFA Disciplinary Commission imposed a six-month suspension on him, barring attendance at all international matches involving Cameroon’s national teams until March 31, 2025.