Why did Cameroon suspend Andre Onana from the World Cup?

The Inter Milan goalkeeper was absent from Monday’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Serbia in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Cameroon Football Federation has suspended Andre Onana for an indefinite period from the national team due to ‘disciplinary reasons’.

The suspension follows manager Rigobert Song’s decision to omit Onana from Monday’s 3-3 thriller against Serbia after reports claimed the manager and goalkeeper disagreed over the latter’s style of play.

Song allegedly asked Onana to adopt a more ‘traditional’ style of goalkeeping, but the Inter star refused to do so. Speaking to reporters on Monday, the Cameroon coach added he felt he needed to ‘take a strong action’.

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“Following Rigobert Song’s decision, Andre Onana has been temporarily suspended from the group for disciplinary reasons,” a statement from the Cameroon Football Federation read.

“The Cameron Football Federation reiterates its full support to the head coach and his entire staff as they implement the Federation’s policy aimed at preserving discipline, solidarity, complementarity and cohesion within the national team.

“FECAFOOT further reaffirms its commitment to create a peaceful atmosphere for the team and to provide them with adequate facilities for outstanding performance.”

Onana’s replacement, Devis Epassy, provided Song a more ‘traditional’ approach in the Serbia game. While the Abha Club goalkeeper conceded three goals, he made two saves and attempted just 18 passes. In contrast, Onana had 61 touches in the previous game against Switzerland, with 26 of them from outside his own box. That match ended in a 1-0 defeat.

Cameroon next face Brazil for their final Group G game on Friday, knowing victory is a must to leapfrog Switzerland and reach the last 16. They trail the second-placed Swiss by two points.