Tensions within Cameroonian football continue to escalate, as disagreements between the Ministry of Sports and the country’s football federation, Fecafoot, headed by former football star Samuel Eto’o, overshadow preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Indomitable Lions have been drawn into a challenging group that includes Côte d’Ivoire, the defending champions, reigniting a historic rivalry.
Speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI), Cameroon’s head coach Marc Brys expressed both optimism and frustration over the ongoing discord that has plagued the national team’s environment.
“This All Really Annoys Me”
Despite acknowledging the quality and resilience of his squad, Brys did not shy away from criticizing the impact of internal disputes.
He described his players as a “very good group, made up of winners, very hard on themselves,” but lamented the distractions caused by the feud between Fecafoot and the Ministry of Sports.
The Belgian coach’s frustrations were palpable as he addressed the situation. “Yes, I have to be honest; it is not constructive to work like this any longer. It absorbs a lot of energy for me and the other coaches of the national team.
This has to change. Once again, we are playing for the country. Now, we have to stop with this bullshit, because it really annoys me,” he said, underscoring the toll the internal conflict is taking on the team’s preparations.
Brys also made it clear that neither Côte d’Ivoire nor the ongoing controversies within Cameroonian football intimidate him.
“We are not afraid of anything, we are not afraid of Eto’o, and neither of Côte d’Ivoire,” he declared, emphasizing his confidence in the Indomitable Lions’ potential.
Balancing Hope with Challenges
With only months to go before the tournament begins, Cameroon finds itself facing battles both on and off the pitch. Brys remains hopeful that the issues hindering the team’s harmony will be resolved in time.
“I am very hopeful; otherwise, I would not be here,” he said, signaling his determination to lead the team through this challenging period.
While the rivalry with Côte d’Ivoire and other footballing giants promises intense competition on the field, the internal struggles within Cameroonian football could prove to be the bigger challenge.
Brys’ candid remarks reflect the urgency to address these issues if the Indomitable Lions are to make a serious bid for the AFCON title in 2025.
Marc Brys sur les bisbilles avec le ministre “ça doit arrêter avec les conneries, ça m’énerve” pic.twitter.com/uDb67VBLkL
— Emedia SN (@emediasn) January 28, 2025
