Samuel Eto’o, the legendary footballer and current president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), has found himself at the center of controversy yet again. FIFA has imposed a six-month ban on Eto’o for his actions during the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup match between Cameroon and Brazil on September 11, 2024. This sanction prevents him from attending any games involving Cameroon’s national teams across all categories, from youth to senior levels, both men’s and women’s.
The suspension stems from Eto’o’s behavior following Cameroon’s round-of-16 defeat against Brazil in Bogotá, Colombia. Reports suggest that Eto’o took issue with the officiating during the match, particularly the performance of the Italian officials. In his outburst, Eto’o is said to have accused the referees of bias against Cameroon because it was a team of black players. His heated reaction was noted in the officials’ report, prompting an investigation by FIFA.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee found that Eto’o had breached Articles 13 and 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which deal with offensive behavior and misconduct by players and officials. Article 13 covers acts of offensive behavior that include, but are not limited to, unsporting conduct and verbal abuse, while Article 14 is centered on maintaining appropriate conduct by officials, ensuring that respect for fair play and good sportsmanship is upheld.
This latest disciplinary action is part of a troubling pattern in Eto’o’s tenure as FECAFOOT president. In July 2024, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) fined Eto’o $200,000 for breaching its ethical code, citing behavior unbecoming of an official. Eto’o’s public disputes with various football authorities and his own players have raised concerns. For example, he was previously criticized for allegedly threatening the national team coach Marc Brys and several players if they did not follow his instructions.
Perhaps the most notable recent incident involving Eto’o occurred during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After a match between Brazil and South Korea, Eto’o was filmed physically assaulting a YouTuber who reportedly made provocative remarks about Eto’o’s past involvement with match-fixing allegations. Despite apologizing for the attack, the incident left a blemish on his reputation, casting doubt on his ability to manage FECAFOOT’s affairs without controversy.
FIFA’s decision to sanction Eto’o has ignited debates within Cameroon’s football community. While some supporters believe Eto’o’s passion for the game sometimes leads to overreactions, others argue that his role as FECAFOOT president demands greater professionalism and restraint. His absence from matches could affect the morale of the national teams, especially given his influence over Cameroon’s football strategy. Furthermore, Eto’o’s ban could have broader implications for his relationship with FIFA and CAF, two organizations he has clashed with in the past.
The suspension, which took effect on September 30, 2024, is seen as a significant blow not only to Eto’o but also to FECAFOOT, as it comes during a crucial period for Cameroonian football. The nation is preparing for important international competitions, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Eto’o’s absence at these events could weaken his leadership over key footballing decisions.
As Eto’o serves his suspension, many in Cameroon and beyond will be watching closely to see how FECAFOOT navigates this period without him. The hope is that this sanction will serve as a turning point, encouraging Eto’o to adopt a more measured approach to leadership while continuing to inspire the next generation of Cameroonian footballers.
