WHY I CHOSE TO PLAY FOR CAMEROON
A FRENCH-BORN star has opened up about his decision to represent Cameroon at the 2022 FIFA World Cup after switching his allegiance during the last international break in September.
This year has seen many European-born stars change their allegiance to African countries, with the likes of Taariq Lamptey and Inaki Williams opting to represent Ghana despite being born in England and Spain, respectively. The two have also been selected in the Black Stars’ 26-man squad, which will face Portugal, South Korea, and familiar World Cup foe Uruguay in Group H.
Five-time Africa Cup of Nations winners Cameroon have also sought overseas talent which has a lineage in their country. Born in Avallon in France to a French mother and Cameroonian dad, Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo decided to follow the path of his father a few months ago.
The winger had played for the Les Bleus’ youth teams from Under-17 up until Under-21 level and he received his clearance from FIFA in September before going on to make his debut that same month in an international friendly against Uzbekistan. It is also understood that the president of Cameroonian football association (FECAFOOT) Samuel Eto’o played a key role in discussions with the player.
Having already made two caps for the Indomitable Lions, Mbeuma told BBC Sport Africa that he relishes the opportunity of playing at the World Cup.
“I’ve always wanted to play a World Cup since I was young,” the 23-year-old said. “Just to walk around the pitch with a big crowd and other stuff would be amazing. It’s going to be crazy inside me.”
The Bees’ attacker then revealed what Eto’o said to him to convince him about the switch.
“It was an honour for me just to be face-to-face with him and talk to him because he was one of the best strikers in the world,” he explained.
“He told me about the project, what we can do and I enjoyed this moment. It’s a big thing for someone like him to want you in his team.”
“As I played for France in the youth team and grew up in France as well, it was hard but I have travelled to Cameroon many times,” he added.
“My dad is very proud, and very happy for me. I’m grateful to be part of this for him, and for my family, and he’s very happy.”