Cameroon’s 3-1 victory over Libya in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers was overshadowed by controversy within the Indomitable Lions’ camp, with captain Vincent Aboubakar facing criticism over his recent public stance.
On the eve of the match, Aboubakar read a statement on behalf of the team, expressing their “unwavering support” for head coach Marc Brys.
The players also urged the reinstatement of Joachim Mununga, the Belgian assistant coach who has been repeatedly sidelined by the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT).
However, their appeal was disregarded, and Mununga was once again absent from the matchday squad against Libya.
The move sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting the captain’s call for stability while others questioned his motives.
Among those casting doubt was former Cameroon international Fabrice Olinga, who posted a cryptic message on Snapchat seemingly aimed at Aboubakar.
“An old man once told me, someone who listens for hours is more powerful than someone who talks for hours.
When one of the biggest hypocrites is one of the leaders of the national team… Go Lions,” Olinga wrote, without naming anyone explicitly.
Having earned 19 caps for Cameroon between 2012 and 2017, Olinga played alongside Aboubakar on multiple occasions.
He was also known to have a close association with FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o, though their relationship has reportedly cooled in recent years.
His remarks, however, suggest he still aligns with Eto’o’s stance on internal matters.
Growing Divisions in the Squad
The latest controversy has reignited discussions over the true cohesion of the Cameroonian squad.
While the team displayed a united front ahead of the match, lingering divisions remain beneath the surface.
Aboubakar’s public statement was viewed by some as a necessary intervention in support of the coaching staff, but others perceived it as an opportunistic move.
The tension highlights the ongoing power struggle within Cameroonian football, where internal discord threatens to disrupt the team’s progress on the pitch.
As the Indomitable Lions continue their World Cup qualification campaign, they face not only their opponents but also a battle to maintain harmony within the squad.
With the stakes high, the ability to manage these internal disputes could be just as crucial as their performances on the field.
