Cameroon Fires Brys, Names Pagou Coach Ahead of AFCON

YAOUNDE, Cameroon — Cameroon's soccer federation dismissed Belgian coach Marc Brys on Monday and appointed David Pagou as the new head coach, just three weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations begins on December 21 in Morocco. Pagou promptly excluded captain Vincent Aboubakar and goalkeeper André Onana from the 28-player squad announced late that day, signaling a major overhaul for the five-time tournament champions.

The move follows Cameroon's elimination from 2026 World Cup qualifying last month, where Brys' team suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoffs. That loss capped a disappointing campaign for the Indomitable Lions, who hold Africa's record with eight World Cup appearances but failed to secure a spot in the tournament set for the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The federation, led by president Samuel Eto'o — a Cameroonian soccer legend and recent reelection winner — cited grievances against Brys, including allegations of subterfuge and insubordination. Brys' appointment in April 2024 had been imposed by the sports ministry over the federation's objections, leading to ongoing tensions.

Pagou, a 56-year-old veteran of Cameroon's...