Cameroon’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been thrown into disarray by injuries to two key players, forcing interim head coach David Pagou to make surprise call-ups as the Indomitable Lions attempt to steady themselves ahead of their campaign in Morocco.

Midfielder Fidel Brice Ambina of Vålerenga and defender Jean-Charles Castelletto of Al-Duhail were both ruled out after sustaining injuries in recent club matches. Pagou responded by drafting in Che Malone Fondoh, a 24-year-old centre-back from USM Alger known for his aerial strength and defensive presence, and Arnold Mael Kamdem, a 22-year-old midfielder currently playing in Brazil’s sixth-tier Mato-Grossense league. Kamdem’s selection has raised eyebrows given the level he plays at, but domestic scouts have praised his stamina and vision.

The changes come against a backdrop of turmoil. Belgian coach Marc Brys was sacked on December 1, just days after announcing the initial squad, in a move orchestrated by FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o.

Pagou, a veteran of Cameroon’s domestic league and a physical education teacher, was installed as interim boss, assisted by Martin Nkamgueu Mpile. Brys later alleged that Eto’o personally curated the squad, excluding stars such as André Onana and Vincent Aboubakar for “non-football reasons,” accusations that have deepened perceptions of favoritism and internal rifts.

Pagou’s first steps have been to impose discipline and prepare the squad for friendlies against France’s U23s on December 15 and Turkey on December 20. FECAFOOT insists the reshuffle reflects a “youthful, resilient” approach aimed at ending Cameroon’s trophy drought since 2017. Fans remain divided: some welcome the injection of fresh blood, while others lament what they see as a circus of federation politics overshadowing the team’s focus.

Cameroon will depart for Morocco on December 22, with their Group F opener against Gabon set for January 17 in Agadir. Alongside Ivory Coast and Mozambique, the group poses a stern test.

Pagou must now unify a squad that blends experienced names like Bryan Mbeumo and Frank Zambo Anguissa with raw talents, knowing that success could redeem the turmoil, while failure risks exposing deeper fractures within Cameroonian football.