The release of the list of players called up for the preparation camp for the U23 Africa Cup of Nations sparked considerable controversy within Cameroonian football last week. This list, drawn up by the U23 Lions coach, Guy Feutchine, has been criticised because of the high number of bi-nationals compared to players playing in the local league.
In response to this controversy, David Eyengue, the U23 Lions' media officer, was keen to provide clarification during his appearance on the 100% FOOT programme on Equinoxe TV on 16 March 2026. He explained that the coach had been scouting in Europe, looking for young talent. "For this list of U23 Lions, the coach toured Europe in search of talent. He spotted several gems, perhaps not all of them, but in any case the majority of those who make up this first crop," he said. He also made it clear that this was only a first training camp and that others were planned, including in Cameroon.
David Eyengue stressed that local players will have the opportunity to prove their worth and join the team during the upcoming training camps, which will take place before Cameroon's entry into the U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. These statements are aimed at calming critics and reassuring them that local talent will be taken into account in the final selection.
The U23 Africa Cup of Nations is a biennial tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The 2026 edition will take place at a date and venue yet to be determined. The qualifiers, meanwhile, will determine the teams that will participate in the final phase of the tournament.
In the meantime, the controversy surrounding the U23 Lions list highlights the challenges of talent detection and the promotion of local football in Cameroon. The next events will show whether local players will really have their chance to join the team and defend the country's colours at the U23 Africa Cup of Nations.
