RABAT, Morocco – CAF has officially sanctioned Samuel Eto’o Fils, president of the Cameroonian Football Federation [FECAFOOT], following the quarter-final clash at the AFCON Morocco 2025.
In a statement released Thursday, the CAF Disciplinary Board confirmed that Eto’o has been handed a four-match stadium ban and a USD 20,000 [R327000] fine for his conduct during the match between Morocco and Cameroon held in Rabat on January 9, 2026.
WHERE DO THE CHARGES AGAINST SAMUEL ETO’O COME FROM?
The charges stem from the fixture at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where hosts Morocco defeated the Indomitable Lions 2-0. Reports indicate that Eto’o was observed making ‘angry gestures’ regarding refereeing decisions in the VIP area, reportedly in the presence of CAF president Patrice Motsepe.
The match was marked by high tension following a late change to the officiating team and several disputed calls, including a penalty denied to Cameroon’s Bryan Mbeumo.
The Barcelona and Inter Milan striker is also reported to have briefly poked fellow Executive Committee member Ahmed Yahya in the chest during a heated moment.
The Disciplinary Board found Eto’o guilty of violating Article 2[3] of the CAF Statutes and of failing to uphold the principles of sportsmanship and fair play. He was also found to have violated Article 82 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, which concerns general misconduct during a CAF-sanctioned event.
ETO’O & FECAFOOT RESPOND TO CAF RULING
FECAFOOT reacted swiftly, expressing ‘serious concerns’ over the speed of the ruling. In a statement issued shortly after the verdict, the federation claimed the decision “lacks explicit justification” and criticised the “expedited procedure” as a violation of the requirements for a fair trial.
FECAFOOT has confirmed it will appeal the decision, while reaffirming its “unwavering support” for its president.
This is not the first time the former Indomitable Lions striker has faced disciplinary action. In late 2024, Eto’o received a six-month ban from FIFA for “offensive behaviour” during a Under-20 Women’s World Cup match. This latest CAF sanction adds further pressure to his administration, which has been characterised by both reformist zeal and frequent friction with continental and international governing bodies.
CAF has stated it will make no further comment on the matter. Morocco, having won the match in question, is scheduled to face Senegal in the AFCON final this Sunday.
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