After getting into a physical argument with an Algerian YouTuber while in Dubai for the World Cup, Samuel Eto’o has made a “not-so-sorry” apology.
The former striker for Barcelona and Chelsea was seen on camera kneeing a man while filming him outside Stadium 974 in Doha, where Brazil had had defeated South Korea 4-1 the day before.
According to reports, Eto’o lost his cool after a supporter, later identified as Said Mamouni, reportedly inquired as to whether Eto’o had offered the referee a bribe prior to Cameroon’s pivotal playoff victory against Algeria in March, which secured his team’s spot at the World Cup in Qatar.
The former striker denied the claim – both vocally and physically – and released an apology statement on Tuesday, though it’s evident he’s still furious over the inflammatory question.
‘On 5 December, following the Brazil-South Korea match, I had a severe incident with a person who was possibly an Algerian supporter,’ Eto’o added in his statement.
‘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.
Samuel Eto’o claimed that he’s been targeted with ‘insults’ throughout the World Cup
‘To Fennecs’ fans, I wish that they find peace and manage to overcome the disappointment of a painful defeat, now behind us’.
The pair then appear to be exchanging words in the video, which was captured by La Opinion. A few seconds later, Eto’o appears back on the scene and confronts Mamouni.
Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroonian Football Federation and Qatar 22 ambassador lost his cool and assaulted a man outside the 947 stadium last night.
The victim, who is an Algerian YouTuber questioned Eto’o about Gassama, referee of the world cup qualifying match between pic.twitter.com/vFNWOXVjpT— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) December 6, 2022
