Roda JC defender Bertrand Tchoutang injured himself in Cameroon’s farewell game in front of 60,000 fans in Yaounde and is now a doubt for the World Cup. Coach Winfried Schafer was encouraged by the performances of Joseph Desire Job and goalkeeper Carlos Idriss Kameni.
The game on Friday came ahead of the squad’s departure for the Netherlands for a pre-tournament training camp. Out of 29 players summoned to camp, 20 were in Yaounde for the farewell ceremony.
Geremi, Samuel Eto’o, Lauren, Patrick Mboma and Patrick Suffo were among the absentees.
To thank the fans for their support, the players offered them balls and shirts. Skipper Rigobert Song said: « It’s nice to have the crowd out here to wish us well. The shirts and balls are our own way to thank them for the massive support and belief in our mission. »
The inter-squad game came after the team was received by the Prime Minister Peter Musonge, who told the team that the nation counted on them.
The PM assured the team of government support. « The people and government will put all means at your disposal to enable you achieve victory, » he promised. « Go ahead, do a honorable fight and win. »
Cameroon FA chairman Iya Mohamed said it was a similar reception that the PM offered the team four months ago before they left for Mali 2002. And since the team succeeded in the Nations Cup, then a similar result would be welcome in the World Cup.
« The guests, officials and decor are same like in January (when the team was seen off for Mali 2002). So why will the result in the World Cup not be similar? » Iya asked.
