African football’s governing body says FECAFOOT president breached sportsmanship and disciplinary rules during Cameroon’s quarter-final defeat to Morocco

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sanctioned Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), for misconduct linked to Cameroon’s quarter-final exit from the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In a statement published on its official website in the early hours of Thursday, CAF said its Disciplinary Board found Eto’o guilty of violating Article 2(3) of the CAF Statutes, which upholds the principles of sportsmanship, as well as Article 82 of the CAF Disciplinary Code relating to improper conduct during matches.

As punishment, the former Cameroon captain has been handed a four-match stadium ban from all official CAF competitions in the context of the current AFCON. He was also fined $20,000 (about ₦32 million).

The sanctions stem from Eto’o’s actions during and immediately after Cameroon’s 2–0 loss to Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat last Saturday. Second-half goals from the Atlas Lions sealed victory for the hosts, ended Cameroon’s title defence, and secured Morocco a place in the semi-finals.

While CAF did not disclose specific details of the misconduct in its statement, sources familiar with the incident indicate that the decision relates to Eto’o’s conduct on the touchline and his post-match interactions, which were deemed to have fallen short of the standards expected of football officials.

The ruling represents a major disciplinary step against one of Africa’s most celebrated football figures, now serving in an administrative leadership role. Eto’o famously captained Cameroon to AFCON titles in 2000 and 2002 but has yet to issue a public response to the sanctions.

CAF said the measures underscore its commitment to discipline, respect, and the integrity of its competitions. The ban effectively prevents Eto’o from attending any further Cameroon matches at the tournament, should the team advance, as well as other CAF-organised fixtures involving the Indomitable Lions in the near term.

The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of officiating standards and off-field behaviour at the 2025 AFCON, following a series of controversies involving referees, officials, and supporters.

CAF added that further details, including any potential appeal by Eto’o or FECAFOOT, will be communicated in due course.

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