Samuel Eto’o admits to ‘violent altercation’ with World Cup fan after video emerges
Cameroon defeated Algeria to qualify for the World Cup after a last-second goal in the play-off second leg, with Algeria then appealing to Fifa for the result to be overturned because of a series of “disgraceful refereeing” decisions.
Fifa rejected Ageria’s appeals and Eto’o claims he has been the “target of insults and allegations of cheating without any evidence” since the match.
A statement from Eto’o, which did not include a direct apology to the supporter he appeared to attack, read: “On last 5 December, after the Brazil-South Korea match, I had a violent altercation with a person who was probably an Algerian supporter.
“I would like to apologise for losing my temper and reacting in a way that does not match my personality. I apologise to the public for this unfortunate incident.
“I pledge to continue to resist the relentless provocation and daily harassment of some Algerian supporters. Indeed, since the Cameroon-Algeria match on 29 March in Blida, I have been the target of insults and allegations of cheating without any evidence.
“During this World Cup, Cameroonian fans have been harassed and pestered by Algerians on the same subject. I would like to mention that the scenario of Algeria’s defeat was cruel but perfectly in line with the rules and ethics of our sport.
“All the appeals made by the Algerian Football Federation to the competent jurisdictions have been rejected.
“I therefore call on the Algerian authorities and Federation to take their responsibilities to put an end to this unhealthy climate before a more serious tragedy occurs.
“To Fennecs’ fans, I wish that they find peace and manage to overcome the disappointment of a painful defeat, now behind us.”
Eto’o is also in Qatar as World Cup 2022 legacy ambassador. A former Barcelona, Inter Milan and Chelsea striker, Eto’o was named African Footballer of the Year on four occasions. He also played in Qatar.
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During his career, he scored 56 goals in 118 games for Cameroon and represented his country at four World Cups before retiring in 2019.
The Independent has contacted the Cameroonian Football Federation for comment.
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