Former Cameroon international Samuel Eto’o has been handed a four-match ban and fined $20,000 (£14,960) after being found guilty of misconduct by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
CAF announced the sanction in a statement reported by BBC Sport on Friday, saying Eto’o, who currently serves as president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) breached principles of sportsmanship during the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final between Cameroon and Morocco. The match, played in Rabat, ended in a 2–0 defeat for the Indomitable Lions against the tournament hosts.
The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker was reportedly seen making angry gestures in response to several decisions by match officials during the game. CAF president Patrice Motsepe, who was present at the stadium, is understood to have witnessed Eto’o’s conduct.
Earlier this week, CAF said it had opened an investigation into “violent confrontations and unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials” during the tournament’s quarter-final matches.
FECAFOOT has since rejected CAF’s decision, describing the disciplinary process as one that “raises serious reservations about the fundamental requirements of a fair trial.” In a statement issued on Wednesday, the federation expressed full support for Eto’o and indicated that it would appeal the sanction.
Eto’o, one of Africa’s most decorated footballers, has been president of FECAFOOT since 2021. However, his tenure has been dogged by controversy, including allegations of improper conduct, governance concerns and claims of irregularities within the federation.
While some football stakeholders in Cameroon have openly criticised his leadership, Eto’o has consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his administration has implemented reforms and recorded significant achievements.
