Former Cameroon football star Samuel Eto’o has been handed a four-match ban and fined $20,000 after being found guilty of misconduct by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In a statement, CAF said Eto’o violated the organisation’s principles of sportsmanship during the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final match between Cameroon and hosts Morocco. Eto’o, who is currently president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), was present at the match in Rabat where Cameroon lost 2-0.
The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker was reportedly seen making angry gestures towards match officials in reaction to several refereeing decisions. CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who was also in attendance, is believed to have witnessed the incident.
Earlier this week, CAF announced it had opened an investigation into what it described as violent confrontations and unacceptable behaviour involving players and officials during AFCON quarter-final matches.
FECAFOOT has rejected the ruling, criticising the disciplinary process and raising concerns about what it described as a lack of fairness and due process. In a statement, the federation voiced full support for Eto’o and indicated that he is likely to appeal against the sanction.
Since taking office in 2021, Eto’o’s tenure as FECAFOOT president has been marked by repeated controversies. He has faced allegations of improper conduct, governance issues, and internal irregularities within Cameroonian football.
Eto’o has consistently denied wrongdoing, maintaining that his leadership has brought positive reforms and progress to the federation despite ongoing criticism.