Cameroon FA president, Samuel Eto’o has issued a public apology for brutally attacking an Algerian YouTuber outside the World Cup stadium in Qatar.
The former professional footballer was caught in a shocking footage kneeing a man in the face during a physical altercation after the match between Brazil and South Korea in Doha on Monday, December 5.
The ex-Barcelona and Chelsea striker got infuriated after the YouTuber, identified as Said Mamouni, asked whether he bribed the referee before Cameroon’s playoff victory against Algeria back in March, which granted them a slot at the World Cup in Qatar. Watch here
Following the heat that trailed the attack, Eto’o has now tendered an apology for his action, as he also urged Algerians to stop harassing him and other Cameroonians due to their loss.
In his statement, Eto’o wrote: ‘On 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 29th 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’.
