ACTUALITE |
04.06.2004
Lions Set to Gnaw Squirrels
Cameroon will face Benin in its first qualification match for the 2006 World Cup and Nations Cup next Sunday.
All is virtually set for next Sunday’s international match between the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon and the Squirrels of Benin. The encounter at the Yaounde Omnisport stadium begins at 3:30 pm. It would be a match of utmost importance to both teams as it sets the pace for the rest of the encounters for the 2006 World Cup/African Cup of Nations qualifiers. The challenge is more for the Lions following all what the team has been through within the last couple of months. The Lions, who a few weeks back were not certain to start on the same line with the other teams of the group following the FIFA six point sanction, are today beginning their qualifiers with all their points intact. It will therefore be an occasion for the Lions to reassure their fans that they are still a team to reckon with on the continental scene.
It is for this reason that the coach, Winfred Schafer, and his boys are not ready to make any faulty move. The team has been in camp in Yaounde since Sunday. The friendly encounter of last Tuesday against local side, Canon of Yaounde, provided an opportunity for the coach to put his team to test. Although the Indomitable Lions outplayed Canon, 4 — 2, the encounter brought out the weaknesses in the squad. Since last Wednesday therefore, the regular practice sessions at the Yaounde Omnisport stadium have been moments for redressing weaknesses and refining strategies.
Meanwhile, the Benin delegation, comprising some 25 persons, was expected in Yaounde yesterday night. Although the results of the Squirrel’s recent matches are not encouraging (Nigeria outplayed Benin 2 — 1, they lost 0 — 2 to South Africa and succumbed to the Atlas Lions 0 — 4), the team is said to have put tings straight for the match against Cameroon. After all, in one of its last outings, Benin beat Burkina Faso 1 — 0. Reports also hold that the squad of the Squirrels has also been reinforced for Sunday’s encounter. About ten professionals have been called up to reinforce the team that would face the Lions. Coach Cecil Jones Attuquayefio and his boys would therefore not be in Cameroon for tourism.
Yesterday afternoon, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Etame Massoma, was at the Yaounde Omnisport stadium to inspect the facilities. From all indications, all will be set by Sunday. The practical modalities are already known. Gate fees will range from CFA 10,000 for the Presidential Tribune to CFA 700 francs for the "shaba". Those wishing to watch the match from Tribune A and B will pay CFA 1,500, while those for the VIP stand will pay CFA 3,000. Tickets can only be purchased at the different gates into the stadium on the day of the match. These decisions were taken yesterday during a meeting chaired by Youth and Sports boss, Etame Massoma. The meeting brought together officials of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), the gendarmerie, as well as those of the Governor’s office.
In the meantime, the Indomitable Lions will give a press conference today at 6:00pm at the Yaounde Mt Febe Hotel. It will certainly be an occasion for captain Song Bahanag and his mates to reassure their fans of their determination to win Sunday’s encounter.
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Hits: 1 | Source:cameroon-tribune.cm | |
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