Eight U20 Lionesses Dropped Ahead of Botswana Clash Amid Federation orders

By Gisela Lum

Journalist,kick442.com-Cameroon

Eight players from Cameroon’s U20 women’s national team have been dropped from the squad on the eve of their crucial third-round FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Botswana, a decision that has intensified tensions within Cameroonian football circles.

The players affected are Tiwa Lys Fraîche, Ange Tazanou, Crystal Agoghue, Mafor Clair Stéphanie, Mvele Marie, Ayissa Nkono, and Yolande Zoua. The decision, officially taken by FECAFOOT, significantly weakens Hassan Balla’s squad just days before the first-leg encounter against the Botswana U20 side.

According to reports from Foot IA and Ayila Sport, the exclusions mainly concern players who recently featured with Cameroon’s U17 national team at the last FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. The move is reportedly linked to a collective reaction by the players following the suspension of their former technical staff, led by coach Ndoko, ahead of the U17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco last September.

Sources indicate that the players had expressed dissatisfaction with the dismissal of the Ndoko-led technical team and had collectively demanded their reinstatement. That stance is said to have prompted a firm response from the federation’s hierarchy, resulting in their removal from the U20 setup just before this decisive qualification phase.

The timing of the decision has raised serious concerns about team stability, player management, and preparation, especially with qualification for the next round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup now hanging in the balance. Observers have questioned the wisdom of such a drastic move so close to matchday.

As a result, Hassan Balla will face Botswana over the two legs with a reduced squad, increasing the pressure on the remaining players and technical bench. Cameroon is still scheduled to host Botswana this Saturday at 5:00 pm at the Olembe Stadium, before the return leg, with progression to the next round at stake.

With tensions high and margins thin, the situation underscores the growing strain between players and federation authorities, as the fight for World Cup qualification enters a critical phase.