Cameroon announces squad for AFCON 2025 qualifiers amid internal dispute
Cameroon’s preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers has been overshadowed by growing tension between head coach Marc Brys and the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot). Despite this internal conflict, the list of Indomitable Lions selected for the upcoming qualifiers has been released to the public, albeit under unconventional circumstances.
The announcement, which typically would have been made during a press conference, was handled quite differently this time around.
Coach Marc Brys, who had been expected to address the media, was notably absent, deepening speculation of a rift between the Belgian coach and Fecafoot.
After a series of reactions and speculation surrounding his absence, Fecafoot took the lead, revealing the squad for the crucial AFCON 2025 qualifying matches.
This development comes as Cameroon prepares to take on Namibia in their first fixture before heading to Kampala for a second clash.
Despite the backdrop of off-field drama, the list released by Fecafoot largely mirrors the previous squad called up by Brys, retaining many of the familiar names who have consistently represented the Indomitable Lions.
Despite the conflict behind the scenes, Cameroon has called upon a familiar core of experienced players who have been instrumental in the team’s previous performances. The squad features some of the most established names in Cameroonian football, highlighting the country’s determination to secure qualification for CAN 2025, which will be held in Morocco.
Among the standout names are veterans of the squad who have remained crucial to Cameroon’s success on the international stage. As expected, the team is built around these regulars, who provide stability and leadership for the Indomitable Lions.
The goalkeeper position is once again expected to be a key point of focus, with André Onana likely to be among those called upon to protect Cameroon’s goal.
Onana’s performances have been essential to Cameroon’s successes in recent tournaments, and his inclusion will offer some much-needed reassurance in defense.
Midfield general André-Frank Zambo Anguissa also remains a central figure in the team, providing both creativity and defensive strength in the middle of the park.
His ability to control the tempo of the game will be crucial in the two upcoming fixtures.
The attack, meanwhile, will likely rely on forwards like Karl Toko Ekambi and Vincent Aboubakar, who have been regular goal scorers for the national side.
Cameroon’s first test comes in the form of Namibia, a side known for its resilience but which lacks the experience and depth of the Cameroonian squad.
The Indomitable Lions are favorites to take three points in this encounter, particularly with their wealth of talent across the pitch.
Following the Namibia match, Cameroon will travel to Kampala, where they will face Uganda.
This match promises to be a more challenging affair, with Uganda posing a stronger threat on their home turf.
However, with the quality of the squad at his disposal, Brys will be confident that his team can navigate the challenges posed by both Namibia and Uganda, securing the points needed to edge closer to AFCON 2025 qualification.
While the focus now shifts to the pitch, the tension between Brys and Fecafoot continues to linger in the background.
The strained relationship has raised questions about the long-term future of Brys as Cameroon’s coach, with some suggesting that the conflict could overshadow the team’s preparations for the tournament.
For now, however, Cameroon will be hoping that the focus remains firmly on the task at hand: securing qualification for the African continent’s most prestigious football tournament.
The upcoming matches against Namibia and Uganda will provide the first steps in that journey, as the Indomitable Lions seek to reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.
With a squad brimming with talent, Cameroon’s hopes for AFCON 2025 qualification remain strong—provided they can navigate both the challenges on the pitch and the growing tensions off it.
