“Explosive”: Marc Brys Reflects on Tumultuous Start as Indomitable Lions Coach

“I felt I was being fought against and not welcomed. But my father always told me when I was young, ‘Ne recule pas’ — don’t back down; don’t run away. Stand your ground. So that’s what I did” Brys told the Athletic.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon — When Marc Brys accepted the role as head coach of Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions, he knew the job would come with challenges, but he didn’t expect them to erupt almost immediately. Reflecting on his first days with The Athletic, Brys described his initial experience in Cameroon with one word: “explosive.”

Within three days of his appointment, a public clash erupted between Brys and Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) President Samuel Eto’o, who was displeased that Brys had been selected by the Ministry of Sports rather than FECAFOOT. The moment, captured in a viral clip from FECAFOOT headquarters, showed Brys facing Eto’o in a heated exchange, setting the tone for a rocky start.

Despite the tension, Brys says he approached the situation with resolve, guided by his father’s advice: “Ne recule pas” — don’t back down. “I didn’t want things to escalate, but I wanted to make it clear that I don’t walk away,” Brys explained. “It was important the players saw this too and appreciated the resolve.”

The two ultimately made a public truce, with Eto’o offering an apology in a conciliatory press conference. “It’s business-like, with respect,” Brys now says of their relationship.

Beyond the initial turmoil, Brys’ tenure has been marked by substantial progress. He introduced key changes to the team’s environment and structure, making the dressing room a private sanctuary for players. He also tackled logistical issues around travel, training, and resources, aiming to create a stable foundation for the squad.

Brys' focus has been on empowering his players and encouraging a brave approach to the game. His leadership has already paid off, as demonstrated by DC United's Boris Enow, who scored a stunning free-kick on his debut against Kenya. "It's great that he dared to do it with no experience and big players around him. These are the moments to cherish," Brys reflected.

Under Brys’ guidance, the Lions have integrated fresh talent, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, and secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with two games to spare. Cameroon now leads Group D in World Cup qualification, positioning them well for the 2026 tournament.

Brys is driven by a vision of progression and pride. “I want my team to respect each other and to strive to be better every day,” he said. His ultimate goal? To match the success of compatriot Hugo Broos, who led Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2017.

For now, Brys has fostered unity and restored pride among the players. “The players have rediscovered the pleasure of coming home, playing with confidence, and hanging out with each other.

That gives us great strength to move forward,” he shared. From an “explosive” start to an impressive unbeaten streak, Marc Brys’ journey in Cameroon has been anything but ordinary. Yet, he remains undeterred, committed to taking the Indomitable Lions to new heights.