Why Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o has been banned by FIFA from international matches

Why Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o has been banned by FIFA from international matches

New Delhi: Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), has been banned by FIFA from attending international matches involving Cameroon for six months. A FIFA disciplinary panel made this decision after Eto’o breached two important articles in their code of conduct. The incident that triggered the ban took place during the Under-20 Women’s World Cup last-16 match between Cameroon and Brazil, which was held on 11th September in Bogota, Colombia.

Cameroon lost the game 3-1 after extra time, but it wasn’t just the defeat that caught attention. FIFA’s disciplinary action against Eto’o, a legendary figure in African football, shows that no one is above the rules, even those with significant footballing backgrounds.

The Cameroonian legend was appointed as the president of Fecafoot in 2021, and has now been prevented from attending all men’s and women’s football matches featuring Cameroon at every level. His absence will be particularly noted during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in October when Cameroon faces Kenya in a double-header. Despite his involvement in discussions earlier this week about preparations for these crucial matches, Eto’o’s ban means he will be absent from the games.

What led to the ban of Samuel Eto’o?

Samuel Eto’o Sanctioned by FIFA.

6-month ban from Cameroon team matches.
– Reason: Breaches of FIFA Disciplinary Code (articles 13 & 14)
– Incident: FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup (Brazil vs. Cameroon, Sept 11, 2024)
– Scope: All FECAFOOT teams, men’s and women’s, all ages. pic.twitter.com/yqZUjPHJ8L

— Africa Soccer Zone (@AfricaSoccer_zn) September 30, 2024

Eto’o’s ban stems from violations of FIFA’s disciplinary code during the World Cup match in Colombia. The governing body cited breaches of their rules regarding offensive behaviour and the principles of fair play, alongside misconduct involving officials. However, FIFA did not provide specific details about what happened at the match. The sanctions were implemented immediately, and Eto’o has been officially informed.

Despite being a highly respected figure who won Champions League titles with Barcelona and Inter Milan and represented Cameroon in four World Cups, Eto’o’s actions during this Under-20 Women’s World Cup match have led to this strict punishment. His ban serves as a reminder that even prominent figures in football must abide by the rules set by FIFA to maintain integrity in the sport.

 Samuel Eto’o has been banned by FIFA for six months from attending international matches involving Cameroon after disciplinary breaches.  Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today