Cameroon Football in Turmoil: Marc Brys Rejects FECAFOOT Technical Staff for Crucial AFCON Qualifier

The coach of the Indomitable Lions, who are set to face Namibia in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on September 7, has reportedly made it clear that he does not want the FECAFOOT-appointed staff by his side on the bench. Instead, Brys is insisting on working exclusively with personnel named by MINSEP.

This tension between the two governing bodies, which has been simmering for months, comes to the fore just days before the crucial match in Garoua. Brys’ apparent refusal to cooperate with FECAFOOT’s staff signals deeper divisions within the country’s football administration, raising questions about the balance of power between the football federation and the government.

A Battle for Control

At the heart of the conflict is a fundamental disagreement over who controls Cameroonian football. FECAFOOT, led by President Samuel Eto'o, has made clear its desire to manage footballing matters without interference from the government. However, MINSEP, which oversees sports administration in the country, continues to exert influence, especially regarding key appointments and financial management.

In a surprising twist, Brys has aligned himself with MINSEP, a move that could be seen as a rebuke of FECAFOOT’s authority. According to sources close to the situation, Brys, who is still relatively new to the role, is uncomfortable working with FECAFOOT staff, preferring to rely on a team sanctioned by MINSEP.

The Press Conference Showdown

As tensions mount, all eyes are on today's press conference, where Brys is expected to address the media alongside Thierry Ndoh, a representative from FECAFOOT. The event is likely to serve as a litmus test for Brys' independence and resolve. Many Cameroonians are eager to see if he will stand firm in his decision or if a compromise will be brokered to ease tensions ahead of Saturday's match.

Critics have questioned Brys’ stance, urging him to act in the best interest of the team. "Marc Brys, show Cameroonians you are a man of principle and not just a yes-man," one prominent sports commentator said. "The presence of MINSEP in Garoua will change nothing, and Brys knows it."

FECAFOOT: A Federation Standing its Ground

FECAFOOT has remained steadfast in asserting its authority. Its officials, including those responsible for team management, have been present in Garoua, ensuring that preparations for the match proceed according to plan. "FECAFOOT operates within the framework of national laws," said a spokesperson for the federation. "We will not be intimidated by external forces. Our staff, appointed by the executive committee, will continue their duties, and no one will push us out."

FECAFOOT has made it clear that Brys has two options: either work with the federation’s appointed staff or resign from his post. "The laws must be respected, and the federation is within its rights," added the spokesperson. "Brys has a choice to make."

A Broader Power Struggle

This latest episode is symptomatic of the broader struggle for control over Cameroonian football. Since his election as FECAFOOT president, Samuel Eto'o has clashed repeatedly with MINSEP over the management of the national team and the direction of the sport. While Eto'o’s leadership has been marked by bold reforms, some within the government have sought to rein in his authority, citing the need for state oversight.

Adding fuel to the fire, Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute recently sided with FECAFOOT in the debate over where to hold the upcoming matches. Despite concerns about infrastructure, the government has supported FECAFOOT’s choice to play in Garoua, signaling that, for now, the federation retains the upper hand.

The Stakes Ahead of AFCON 2025

The stakes for Cameroonian football could not be higher. With the AFCON 2025 qualifiers now underway, unity within the national team setup is crucial. Distractions off the pitch threaten to derail the Lions' campaign, leaving fans concerned about the impact of these disputes on the team’s performance.

As Garoua prepares to host the showdown against Namibia, the focus should be on football. However, for now, the conversation remains centered on who controls the Indomitable Lions and the future of Cameroonian football.

In the words of a local football fan: "Cameroon cannot afford to have both the state and FECAFOOT standing tall while one sits down. Either we move forward together, or the whole system falls apart."

The next few days will reveal whether this delicate balance can be maintained—or if the country's football establishment is headed for an even deeper crisis.