Cameroon’s preparations for their crucial World Cup qualifier against Eswatini have been overshadowed by growing tensions between head coach Marc Brys and the country’s football federation (FECAFOOT).
With just over 24 hours before kickoff, Brys has strongly criticized the exclusion of his assistant Joachim Mununga, accusing FECAFOOT of interfering in the management of his technical staff.
The Belgian coach, who has the backing of the Ministry of Sports, is adamant that he will not proceed without Mununga, whom the federation has barred from being included on the match sheet.
The standoff escalated during the pre-match meeting, where Brys openly expressed his frustration.
“I cannot work with people I do not know and who are less competent,” Brys was quoted as saying by local media. “I need my assistant. We have worked together for over seven years.
We understand each other perfectly, and that makes our collaboration more effective. I need him on the bench. I have that right as head coach. In other countries, this is normal.
But apparently, in Cameroon, things work differently.”
His comments are likely to deepen an already strained relationship with FECAFOOT, led by Samuel Eto’o, which has been at odds with Brys over several issues since his appointment.
The dispute comes at a critical moment for the Indomitable Lions, who are aiming to solidify their position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
However, the ongoing discord between the national federation and the coaching staff risks overshadowing the team’s performance on the pitch.
As the match against Eswatini approaches, the standoff between Brys and FECAFOOT raises concerns over Cameroon’s stability in their qualification campaign.
With tensions running high, the focus remains on whether the situation can be resolved before it disrupts the team’s chances of securing a much-needed victory.
MARC BRYS ORDONNE LA PRÉSENCE DE SON ASSISTANT JOACHIM MUNUNGA SUR LE BANC DE TOUCHE pic.twitter.com/nFHStKUg5m
— 237Mood (@237mood_) March 18, 2025