Luanda-Angola: Indomitable Lions Reject Federation Equipment, Show Solidarity with MINSEP

According to Cfoot, the national team members, including prominent figures like Captain Vincent Aboubakar and goalkeeper André Onana, have explicitly stated their preference to avoid any direct interaction with FECAFOOT's materials and personnel.

Upon their arrival in Luanda on Sunday, the Lions were immediately faced with logistical issues stemming from the ongoing power struggle between FECAFOOT and the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP). The conflict, marked by the existence of two competing staffs, created accommodation problems at the hotel booked by FECAFOOT.

"At the hotel reserved by the federation, there were not enough rooms for everyone due to the large size of the FECAFOOT staff. Naturally, the available rooms were allocated primarily to the federation's staff," Cfoot reports.

In response to the accommodation dilemma, FECAFOOT suggested booking an additional hotel nearby to house MINSEP staff and other government envoys. However, the players unanimously rejected this idea, emphasizing their desire to remain united with the MINSEP staff they have been working with since the beginning of their training camp.

To show their solidarity and support for the MINSEP staff, the players decided to share rooms, with some opting to pair up (two per room) to free up space for the preferred MINSEP staff members. This gesture underscores the players' commitment to working with the MINSEP team.

The situation escalated further when the federation attempted to provide technical equipment for the team's training session. The players refused the offer, choosing instead to continue their preparations with the incomplete equipment provided by the state. This rejection extended to the uniforms and kits brought by the federation, with the players making it clear that they do not wish to have any direct contact with FECAFOOT's provisions at this time.

As the Indomitable Lions prepare for their upcoming match against Angola, the internal conflict between FECAFOOT and MINSEP continues to cast a shadow over their preparations. The players' unwavering stance highlights their commitment to their chosen staff and their resolve to navigate the challenges posed by this administrative rift. As the team looks to focus on their performance on the field, the broader issues of governance and cooperation within Cameroonian football remain pressing concerns.