CAMEROON coach Paul Le Guen has lauded Samuel Eto’o as a true champion ahead of their opening match against Japan today.

Cameroon manager Paul Le Guen has named star man Samuel Eto’o in his 23-man World Cup squad despite the striker’s claims he might walk away from the tournament.

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto’o has threatened to pull out of the World Cup after being criticised by legendary countryman Roger Milla.

BARCELONA striker Samuel Eto’o was crowned the African Player of the Year for the third year in succession yesterday.

THERE remain 182 days to the start of the 2006 World Cup finals and, following last night’s draw in Leipzig, the countdown has now begun in earnest.

World Cup legend Roger Milla today paid his own heartfelt tribute to Marc-Vivien Foe and insisted that the midfielder, who died of a suspected aneurysm on duty in the Confederations Cup, would want Cameroon to contest Sunday’s final against France.

Jason McAteer has been passed fit to play for the Republic of Ireland in their opening World Cup Group E clash with Cameroon on Saturday.

Patrick Mboma refers to Roger Milla as ‘‘a legend,’’ which is why he refuses to be compared to a man who put Cameroon on the world football map.

Patrick Mbomba lacks nothing in confidence. And why should he?