Uncertain Future for Volker Finke as Cameroon Coach Amid Mixed Record
As Volker Finke’s contract nears its end, questions loom over whether the German coach will continue his tenure at the helm of the Cameroon national team, the Indomitable Lions. Appointed on May 22, 2013, as a replacement for Jean-Paul Akono, Finke has led the national side through three years marked by mixed results, growing criticism, and moments of promise.
While Finke enjoys the backing of several key players—including captain Stéphane M’Bia, who has publicly urged the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) to extend his deal—the governing body itself appears divided, and no official decision has yet been made.
Performance Snapshot
Since taking over, Finke has overseen 28 matches, recording:
-
10 wins
-
11 draws
-
7 defeats
Under his leadership, Cameroon scored 28 goals and conceded 29—a goal difference that reflects the inconsistency in both attack and defence. His most notable victories include a 4-1 triumph over Ivory Coast in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and a 4-1 win against Tunisia during the 2014 World Cup qualification playoff.
However, those highs have been offset by difficult moments—most notably the 5-1 defeat to Portugal in a friendly in March 2014, and a disappointing group stage exit at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where Cameroon lost all three matches, including a 4-0 defeat to Croatia and a 4-1 loss to the hosts.
Match Highlights
Competitive Fixtures:
-
2014 World Cup qualifiers and tournament: Mixed results including heavy defeats to Mexico, Croatia, and Brazil.
-
AFCON 2015 qualifiers: Standout wins, but marred by draws and losses to teams like Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast.
Friendlies:
-
A 2-2 draw with Germany showcased the team’s potential, but defeats to Portugal (5-1) and Paraguay (2-1) revealed defensive frailties.
Player Usage
Finke has experimented extensively with personnel, having called up 50 different players during his tenure. His most frequently used player was Eyong Enoh, who made 24 appearances. Other regulars included Nicolas Nkoulou (23 matches), Benjamin Moukandjo (22), and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (21).
In contrast, several players were given only fleeting opportunities, such as Sylvain Abogo, who made just a single appearance despite multiple call-ups.
Federation vs. Players
While M’Bia and other senior figures in the squad support Finke’s continuity, the federation is reportedly less convinced—raising concerns over his ability to adapt to the African football environment and deliver consistent results on the continental stage.
What’s Next?
With just a month remaining on his contract, Finke’s future remains uncertain. His overall record shows moments of tactical intelligence and player development, but also a lack of progress in major competitions. Whether FECAFOOT opts for continuity or a new direction may shape the next chapter for the Indomitable Lions, as they prepare for the 2017 AFCON and 2018 World Cup qualifiers.
