The Cameroon Human Rights Association Stands Up for Nathan Douala

Fecafoot's Suspension of Nathan Douala

The Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot) recently suspended Nathan Douala, along with 61 other players, for alleged dual identity issues. This suspension bars them from participating in the upcoming Play-offs scheduled for March 17 in Douala. Nathan Douala, a prominent figure in Cameroonian football and a participant in the last CAN 2023 in Ivory Coast, stands out among those excluded from the competition. The accusations against him gained traction following an investigation by Le Monde, which revealed that the player's real name is Alexandre Bardelli and that he is allegedly 23 years old.

Victoria United's Defense

In response to the allegations, Nathan Douala's club, Victoria United, vehemently denies the accusations against their young talent. Valentin Nkwain, speaking on behalf of the club, asserts that Nathan Douala is being mistaken for his brother, Alexandre Bardelli, who bears a striking resemblance to him.

Intervention of the Cameroon Human Rights Association

The intervention of the Cameroon Human Rights Association adds a new dimension to the controversy. In a press release, the association affirms that Nathan Douala was indeed born on June 15, 2006, and dismisses any concerns about dual identity regarding his name or age. The association further states that proof of his true identity was provided by his club to the relevant football authorities. The press release emphasizes that Nathan Douala has always been Nathan Douala, with no question of dual identity, and that the necessary evidence has been submitted to support this claim.

Supporting Nathan Douala's Innocence

With the backing of the Cameroon Human Rights Association and the assertion of evidence by Victoria United, Nathan Douala's innocence in the face of accusations of age fraud receives strong support. As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how Fecafoot and other governing bodies will respond to this new development.