African football’s governing body has imposed a four-match suspension and a $20,000 fine on Samuel Eto’o, president of Cameroon’s football federation, following an outburst during the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
The penalty, announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Thursday, relates to Eto’o’s reaction after Cameroon’s 2-0 loss to hosts Morocco in the quarter-finals last week.
CAF said Eto’o was observed “making an angry gesture over refereeing decisions in the presence of CAF President Patrice Motsepe.”
The Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) swiftly condemned the decision, describing it as lacking “any explicit justification.”
In a statement, FECAFOOT expressed concerns over the process, saying: “The expedited procedure leading to this decision raises serious concerns regarding the fundamental requirements of a fair process.”
The federation pledged unwavering backing for its leader, adding: “FECAFOOT reaffirms its support for its president and its commitment to respecting the principles governing credible disciplinary justice.”
The disciplinary action coincides with broader probes by CAF into incidents of violence at the tournament, including clashes between players from Cameroon and Morocco during their match.
The 2025 AFCON, hosted by Morocco, culminates on Sunday with a final pitting the home side against Senegal, while Nigeria faces Egypt in the third-place playoff.
