Francois Oman Biyik is convinced Senegal could create a shock win over France, similar to when Cameroon beat Argentina 12 years ago in Milan.
France begin the defence of the title they won four years ago with a clash against Senegal on Friday.
Biyik, who scored The Indomitable Lions’ goal that consigned champions Argentina to defeat in the opening match of the Italia ’90 World Cup, said Senegal are capable of a similar feat against France.
He said: « It will be a keenly fought battle. Virtually all the Senegalese players play in France and therefore have nothing to fear. If they don’t develop stage fright, they can create another surprise. »
The striker, who captained Cameroon in France four years ago, is also certain his team will lead group E and roar their way to the semi-finals.
He added: « This is a very strong side with tested professionals. I am confident they will go all the way, at least to the last four. »
He is, however, unhappy with the way the Football Federation had handled the administrative side of things, saying it was unnecessary to delay the payment of the player’s bonus, which hampered their preparations last week.
« This is a problem that had been with us for a long time and I would have thought we would not have to go through it again, » he admitted. « It is unprofessional. »
Cameroon arrived in Japan five days late due to a dispute over payment of World Cup qualifying bonuses.
