Cameroon’s World Cup Departure Delayed Over Bonus Dispute
Cameroon’s national team, the Indomitable Lions, are making headlines for all the wrong reasons just days before the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off. On the morning of their scheduled departure to Brazil, players failed to board their specially arranged flight at Yaoundé Airport, citing unpaid bonuses as the cause of their refusal to travel.
According to sources close to the team, the players — led by captain Samuel Eto’o — were expecting to receive their agreed financial bonuses before leaving for Brazil. The payment was reportedly part of a prior agreement between the squad and the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), but the federation has yet to honour the full commitment.
In protest, Eto’o opted not to participate in the team’s farewell match against Moldova on Saturday, which Cameroon nonetheless won 1-0. The gesture underscored the players’ growing frustration over what has become a recurring issue in Cameroonian football.
This is not the first time the bonus controversy has overshadowed Cameroon’s World Cup preparations. On May 23, the players and the federation had reached a temporary truce to allow the team to fulfil their friendly fixture against Germany, which ended in an encouraging 2-2 draw. However, Fecafoot’s apparent failure to meet its financial obligations has reignited tensions within the squad.
As of Sunday morning, the players were still at their hotel in Yaoundé, refusing to board the flight until the matter is resolved. The delay casts a shadow over Cameroon’s World Cup campaign, which is already challenging with matches against Brazil, Croatia, and Mexico awaiting them in Group A.
This incident reflects ongoing governance and logistical challenges that continue to plague African football, often leaving players caught between professional duties and administrative shortcomings. With the tournament just days away, Cameroon’s participation now hinges not just on tactics and training — but on trust and honouring agreements.
