ACTUALITE |
09.09.2005
Cameroon / Egypt : Measures to Attract Spectators
Gate fees would drop, while special green T-shirts will be designed for supporters of the Lions.
In exactly one month (October 9) the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon will be facing the Pharaohs of Egypt in one of the matches of the 10th and last playing day of the ongoing eliminatory series for the 2006 World Cup/African Cup of Nations. It is a very important encounter for Cameroon who presently lead Group Three with 20 points; just one ahead of runners up, Côte d’Ivoire.
Officials of the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (Minsep), those of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), as well as the administrative, technical and medical staff of the Lions are aware of this challenge; wherefore the present mobilisation. Yesterday, a meeting to evaluate the Côte d’Ivoire / Cameroon epic encounter of last Sunday and prepare for the match against Egypt, took place at the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education. It was an occasion for the Minister to thank the Almighty God, the Head of State, the players, the staff of the team, the population, etc, for making the victory possible. He reminded all those involved in preparing the Lions not to rely on past glories. "Forget about the match against Cöte d’Ivoire. Lions need a victory to avoid any surprises", the Minister said.
The plea is simply a reiteration of the number one objective for the eliminatory return matches. It was an all-win venture for Cameroon. So far, the results have been excellent. Four matches played, four victories. The match against Egypt at the Yaounde Ahmadou Ahidjo stadium will therefore be the last hurdle for the Lions before qualification for the World Cup.
Head Coach, Artur Jorge, is aware that Egypt would not be an easy ride. "We are going to play a very strong team and we must win the match", he said. In effect, the Pharaohs are the only team that have challenged the might of the Lions during the qualification matches. Cameroon was beaten 2 — 3 by Egypt in Cairo in September last year.
At the level of FECAFOOT, efforts are being made to instigate popular support. In a press conference after a bilateral meeting between FECAFOOT and MINSEP officials, Jean Rene Atangana Mballa, the First Vice President of FECAFOOT, said the gate fees would be reduced to ensure a full stadium. Spectators have been enjoined to dress in national colours; especially in green. Meanwhile, special green T —shirts would be designed and distributed to most supporters.
With regard to match bonuses pledged by Eto’o Fils, Mr Atangana Mballa said that the striker had already kept to his promise. In addition, he has pledged another CFA 22 million to players and the technical staff in case of a victory against Egypt. Etame Mayer’s case also came up during the question and answer session. Mr Atangana Mballa said the Arsenal player would still be invited for the next camp. "If it is a club problem, FIFA would intervene. But no one would be forced to play for Cameroon", he said.
From all indications, the train carrying the Lions for the Cameroon / Egypt encounter is well on rails. And, it is expected to gather steam as D-day approaches with the camping of the Lions in Yaounde in the days ahead.
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Hits: 1 | Source:cameroon-tribune.cm | |
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