Cameroon boss responds to Samuel Eto'o interference and pressure suspicions at World Cup

Rigobert Song denied Cameroon have been put under unfair pressure by their legendary former star Samuel Eto’o.

Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Federation, predicted an all-African World Cup final between Cameroon and Morocco before the tournament began. Song denied that bold prediction from the former Chelsea, Inter Milan and Barcelona striker was the reason his side performed so badly in their 1-0 opening defeat to Switzerland.

And Song, whose side face Serbia on Monday, denied a rift with Eto’o, against a backdrop of rumours of interference - including squad selection - from their former star. “The president of the federation is passionate about football, he lives and breathes football,” said Song.

“I would say sometimes he even wants to put on the jersey and get out on the pitch to play, because he wants to give everything. But that is not why my players didn’t score against Switzerland. The president is a gentleman who is very supportive.

“He was a footballer himself, he lives, breathes and dreams football, but he does not put any burden or stress on our shoulders, no. The president is someone who is easy to talk to, he is open and we communicate a lot.”

Cameroon and Serbia lost their opening games, with both nations aware another defeat would leave them struggling to make the last 16. With Cameroon facing Brazil in their final group game, Song knows his side must win on Monday - and predicted his players will show a different side.

Rigobert Song played down suspicions that Samuel Eto'o is negatively affecting his Cameroon side (FIFA via Getty Images)

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“We know exactly what is in store for us,” said Song. “It will be a decisive game and we are well prepared. I think you will see a different side to this Cameroon side and we will silence our critics.”

Cameroon are playing in their eighth World Cup but have not beaten a European team since their 1990 Roger Milla-inspired win over Romania. Serbia coach Dragan Stojkovic said: “As a team, we have to be equal in defence and attack. We have to know what we’re doing on the pitch at all times.”